T1 Breaks Losing Streak Against Gen.G in LCK Cup 2025, Smash Earns MVP

T1 Breaks Losing Streak Against Gen.G in LCK Cup 2025, Smash Earns MVP

3. February 2025 by Valentin Pasetti

The LCK Cup 2025 is heating up as South Korea’s top League of Legends teams battle for a spot in the prestigious First Stand international tournament.

In one of the most anticipated matchups of the group stage, T1 claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Gen.G, finally snapping their regional losing streak against their rivals. The standout performer of the series was rookie ADC Smash, who delivered a game-winning performance with Kai’Sa, securing the MVP award.

T1 vs. Gen.G: A Clash of Titans

As the LCK Cup’s regular phase nears its conclusion, teams are racing to secure their playoff positions. Coming into this match, both T1 and Gen.G held a 3-1 record in their group, making this clash a pivotal moment for playoff seeding. With their win, Gen.G advances directly to the knockout stage, while T1 will have to fight through the Play-In phase.

Despite their world championship title, T1 had not beaten Gen.G in an LCK event since Spring 2023. However, this time they had a new weapon in their arsenal: Smash, the rising star filling in for veteran ADC Gumayusi.

Smash Proves His Worth Against Ruler

For the third consecutive series, T1 benched Gumayusi in favor of Smash, a decision that has sparked debates among fans. Facing legendary bot laner Ruler, Smash had a lot to prove—and he delivered spectacularly.

His Kai’Sa performance in Game 1 (13/0/4 KDA) dominated the rift, giving T1 an early lead. However, Gen.G struck back in Game 2, thanks to a masterclass from Chovy on Sylas, forcing a decisive third game. In the end, Smash once again played a crucial role as T1 secured the series victory.

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Key Takeaways from the Match:

  • T1 ended their two-year losing streak against Gen.G in LCK competition.
  • Smash emerged as a rising star, winning MVP for his dominant Kai’Sa performance.
  • T1 finished the group stage with a 4-1 record, securing a spot in the Play-In.
  • Gen.G advances directly to the playoffs after an overall strong showing.
  • Faker and his squad continue their hunt for another international title at First Stand.

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What’s Next for T1?

With the LCK Cup group stage wrapped up, T1 now faces a critical Play-In stage as they aim for a deeper run in the tournament. Their success could hinge on whether Smash remains in the starting lineup or if Gumayusi makes a return.

Regardless, this victory against Gen.G serves as a confidence boost as they prepare for their next challenge.

 

T1 vs Gen.G: LCK 2025 Cup Clásico Preview, Analysis, and Betting Odds