KT and EDG secure spot in World’s quarterfinals

The 2018 League of Legends World Championship group stage delivered dramatic upsets, but Group C ultimately followed expected regional power dynamics with Korean and Chinese teams advancing.

South Korea’s top representative KT Rolster emerged from Group C as the first seed, while China’s EDward Gaming claimed the second qualifying position.

Team Liquid’s elimination marked another disappointing international performance for North America, finishing 3-3 despite being the region’s top seed. MAD Team completed their tournament with an 0-6 record, though this outcome was anticipated given their underdog status. KT Rolster entered as the clear group favorite, though analysts speculated Team Liquid could potentially overcome EDG through superior macro gameplay and strategic execution.

KT Rolster played a pivotal role in determining Team Liquid’s fate, defeating the North American squad in the day’s opening match. EDward Gaming dominated MAD Team in their encounter, while Team Liquid responded with a victory over MAD to keep their qualification hopes alive. Had KT Rolster defeated EDG in their final group stage meeting, Team Liquid would have needed only to replicate that result to force a tiebreaker scenario.

Team Liquid never received that opportunity. EDG strengthened China’s impressive international performance this season by upsetting KT Rolster in a crucial match. Team Liquid subsequently defeated EDG, but this victory came after their elimination had already been mathematically confirmed.

Strategic Insight: The timing of upsets proved critical – EDG’s victory over KT came at the perfect moment to eliminate Team Liquid without requiring a tiebreaker. This highlights how match scheduling can significantly impact qualification scenarios in round-robin formats.

KT Rolster joins fellow LCK representative Afreeca Freecs and the LPL’s Royal Never Give Up as first seeds entering the quarterfinal stage. Once Group D concludes tomorrow, these top seeds will face opponents including G2 Esports, Cloud9, EDward Gaming, and the second seed emerging from Group D.

Regional Strength Assessment: The quarterfinal lineup demonstrates continued Eastern region dominance, with Korean and Chinese teams comprising the majority of first seeds. Western teams face challenging matchups against regionally superior opponents in the knockout stage.

KT Rolster entered Group C appearing dominant, but EDG’s strong challenge to the group’s best team surprised many LCK supporters. The LPL veteran organization showed inconsistent form during the summer split before rallying during the LPL Regional Qualifier. Exceptional teamfighting capabilities, highlighted by standout performances from mid laner Lee “Scout” Ye-chan, propelled EDG to their fifth consecutive Worlds quarterfinal appearance.

Performance Analysis: EDG’s resurgence demonstrates how teams can peak at the right moment for international tournaments. Their teamfight coordination and individual mechanical prowess from key players like Scout provide valuable lessons for teams preparing for major competitions. Understanding how to manage form throughout a season and peak during crucial moments separates championship contenders from early exits.

No reproduction without permission：Games Guides Website » KT and EDG secure spot in World’s quarterfinals KT Rolster and EDG advance to Worlds quarterfinals while Team Liquid's elimination highlights NA's international struggles