The upcoming Play-In stage of the 2025 League of Legends World Championship will see T1 facing off against China’s IG at the Beijing Smart e-Sports Center on the 14th. This match will determine the final team to secure a spot in the Worlds main event, making it a crucial showdown. The winner will move on to the Swiss stage while the losing team will be sent home.
Ryu Min-seok, also known as ‘Keria,’ T1’s support player, shared his thoughts in an interview with INVEN during the Asset Day event held on the 12th. He emphasized the team’s rigorous preparation for this important match against IG, highlighting the significance of potentially achieving a three-peat in his career. He expressed determination to give his best effort in this pivotal game.
Below is an excerpt from the interview with Ryu Min-seok, shedding light on his insights and mindset as he gears up to face IG:
Q. How are you adjusting to the local area and how is your condition?
Adapting to the surroundings has been smooth, given the proximity and minimal time difference. The team’s energy levels are high, and everyone is in good shape, which is a positive sign for us.
Q. With the showdown against IG approaching, are you prepared?
Preparations for this crucial match have been thorough, considering the wealth of data available from IG’s qualifier matches. We are leaving no stone unturned in our readiness for the showdown.
Q. How do you handle the pressure of a potentially elimination game?
Having overcome performance pressure in the past, particularly by clinching the Worlds title, I now approach games with a joyful mindset and minimal pressure. This positive approach helps me stay focused and perform at my best.
Q. What are IG’s strengths, and how do you plan to counter them?
IG’s individual laners excel in their roles and have a strong ability to dictate the pace of the game. ‘Wei’ plays a crucial role in their strategy, and we are mindful of his impact on the game.
Q. What do you believe will be the decisive factor in the upcoming match?
Maintaining control, playing at our pace, and avoiding setbacks will be key to securing victory. By staying ahead and sticking to our game plan, we are confident in our ability to emerge victorious.
Q. How do you handle being a target in pick-ban matches and strategizing?
Overcoming strategic challenges requires effective team communication and a positive mindset, rather than individual efforts alone. Embracing the attention on the support role as a positive sign, I focus on contributing to the team’s success through collaborative efforts.
Q. If you advance past the Play-In Stage, is there a specific team you hope to face?
Meeting IG at this year’s Worlds was a personal desire, and facing them in this scenario adds to the significance of the match. IG remains the team I look forward to competing against.
Q. What makes this Worlds special for Keria?
While every game is approached with seriousness, the opportunity to achieve a rare three-peat at Worlds holds special significance for me. Coming from the 4th seed, I aim to perform well and secure this milestone in my career.
Q. Reflecting on Keria’s journey in Worlds over the years, what are your thoughts on the progression?
With each year, I sense personal growth and improvement, fueled by the experiences gained from participating in Worlds. The steady progression from quarter-finals to aiming for a three-peat showcases the development and dedication invested in my journey.
Q. Playing the Play-In match on your birthday must add an extra layer of motivation. How do you plan to celebrate?
A birthday match holds special significance for me, and I aim to capitalize on this occasion with a Birthday Buff for added luck. Celebrating with the team after the game, I look forward to marking both my birthday and a victory in style.