T1 Worlds 2025 began with one of the most anticipated clashes of the Play-In stage: a do-or-die match against Invictus Gaming. For T1, the stakes are higher than ever. Not only are they aiming to secure a spot in the Swiss Stage, but they’re also chasing history — a three-peat after lifting the Summoner’s Cup in 2023 and 2024.
Meanwhile, Invictus Gaming entered Worlds as the LPL’s fourth seed, hoping to recreate echoes of their 2018 championship run. But the Play-In knockout format leaves no room for error, and IG’s early elimination showed just how unforgiving this year’s Worlds structure is.
Quick Look
Understanding the Format – T1 Worlds 2025
The current Worlds 2025 format is designed to keep the competition tight from day one. Unlike older systems with multiple group stages, today’s Worlds uses a progression ladder where every match carries heavy weight.
- Play-In Stage: Lower-seeded regional teams and wildcards battle for survival. T1 and IG met here, despite T1’s championship pedigree, due to their LCK playoff struggles.
- Swiss Stage: Advancing teams join top regional seeds in a flexible bracket where wins and losses decide progression.
- Knockout Bracket: The final eight clash in single-elimination playoffs.
The T1 vs IG clash served as the perfect example of why Play-Ins are no warm-up — it was a winner-takes-all series with global attention.
Series Recap – T1 Worlds 2025
The best-of-five provided both tension and clarity.
- Game one was close until T1 punished IG’s midgame mistakes.
- Game two flipped the script, with IG forcing dragons and playing aggressive macro through Rookie and TheShy.
- Game three showed T1’s adaptability, with Gumayusi stepping up as the late-game closer.
- Game four sealed the deal: TheShy built an early lead, but Oner’s teamfight control carried T1 to a 27–13 finish.
By the end, the 3–1 scoreline reflected T1’s ability to stay composed in high-pressure moments — a skill that has defined their dynasty.
Key Players and Stats at a Glance
While League is always a team game, this series had clear standouts. Oner’s objective control and Gumayusi’s reliability carried weight, while Faker anchored midlane with his signature calm leadership. On IG’s side, Rookie tried to pull the team forward, but stability slipped away in later fights.
Here’s a look at the numbers from bo3.gg that highlight the turning points:
| Player | Highlight Stat | Value | Impact Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gumayusi (T1) | Average KDA | 11.5 | Outdamaged opponents in late-game fights |
| Oner (T1) | Kill Participation | 76.3% | Secured key Barons and Dragons |
| Faker (T1) | Midlane Control | High CS lead | Enabled side lanes to snowball safely |
| Rookie (IG) | Kill Participation | 80.3% | Carried early fights, especially Game 2 |
| TheShy (IG) | Creative Picks | Rek’Sai, Varus | Created early pressure but lacked follow |
The table underlines why T1 eventually pulled ahead: discipline and consistency outweighed IG’s volatility.
What This Win Means for T1 – T1 Worlds 2025
This victory was more than just a ticket to the next stage. For T1, beating IG accomplishes several things:
- Confidence boost after shaky domestic playoffs.
- Validation of adaptability, showing they can adjust mid-series.
- Momentum for the Swiss Stage, where their next challenge will be FlyQuest, NA’s top seed.
- Continuation of the three-peat storyline, one step closer to a never-before-seen achievement in League of Legends history.
In essence, this wasn’t just about survival. It was about setting the tone for the rest of T1’s Worlds journey.
Conclusion: The Three-Peat Dream Moves Forward
With a 3–1 win over Invictus Gaming, T1 kept their Worlds 2025 campaign alive and advanced to the Swiss Stage. IG’s early exit underlines how punishing the new format is — even past champions can fall on day one.
For fans, the opening clash wasn’t just a Play-In elimination. It was the symbolic launch of Worlds 2025 drama, setting up rivalries, narratives, and history-making stakes. The central question remains: Can T1 ride this momentum and achieve the elusive three-peat at Worlds 2025?
