After the loss of their team captain, Najin Black Sword was not looking favorable in this semifinal match-up. SKT has been dominating their opponents. Day one of semifinals the two teams played five matches- best 3 out of 5- to decide who goes on to finals.

Game 1 secured a victory for Sword, starting the match-up on a high note for the team. It was a tough victory that involved a lot of time trying to break SKT’s spirits, but with outstanding plays, like a Gragas Quadrakill, they were able to break down SKT’s strength.

However, in Game 2, SKT adapted to Sword’s gameplay, baiting sword into traps. SKT dominated all 3 lanes for a decisive victory.

SKT’s over-confidence was their fatal flaw in the third game. Once again Sword’s Gragas, tipped the scales allowing them to take advantage of SKT’s weakness. SKT’s Atrox didn’t fair well in the jungle, as Watch was comfortable in Lee sin and didn’t have the disadvantage of Aatrox’s loss of offensive power after Bloodwell’s expenditure.

The wins continue to go back in forth as Game 4 ends with SKT’s victory, tying the match-up 2-2. The game started out well for Sword, but after a well-done play by PoohManDu and Piglet, allowing Piglet to get a Double kill, Sword began to deteriorate. SKT took an inhibitor at 20 minutes. Sword, feeling helpless and hopeless, then surrendered the game.

Game 5 was the tie-breaker. SKT was gaining objectives, but were outmaneuvered in team fights. This odd balance was broken with Faker’s three-man Shockwave, which SKT then capitalized on by ripping through mid lane. SKT quickly aced their opponent, pushed and destroyed the Nexus, securing their place at finals.

Day 1 Semifinals Recap LOL