Play-In: Elimination Matches
Fukuoka HAWKS gaming vs 100 Thieves
Format: BO3
28.09.2024 18:00
Prediction for the match between Fukuoka HAWKS gaming and 100 Thieves which will take place on September 28. Who will turn out to be stronger? Check the team conditions! Several betting options are available.
Get Your Sign-Up Bonus!Fukuoka HAWKS gaming
Although the LJL no longer has a guaranteed spot at Worlds, the Fukuoka SoftBank HAWKS team still represents Japan at the 2024 tournament. Led by veteran Shunsuke Evi Murase, the Japanese showed great results over the summer, confidently beating their opponents in the Regional Championship, but lost twice to PSG Talon in the PCS playoffs, finishing the season in second place.
Evi's experience at the Worlds and in the LEC could have been an important factor in the Hawks' success when they were just starting out in Germany and were keen to qualify for the play-in stage and thereby prove themselves worthy of a place on the world stage. But the lacklustre defeat to GAM Esports shows that the Japanese team is essentially the weakest and will likely be one of the first to leave the event.
With the right attitude and preparation, the Japanese can surprise and silence the critics. Although they are not considered the main favourites in the battle with 100 Thieves, the results of this year's event show that if the team focuses on its strengths and works on the shortcomings of the first encounter, it can excite Worlds 2024.
100 Thieves
100 Thieves is one of the most stable and experienced teams on the North American scene, known for their tactical discipline and ability to control the pace of the game. Their strategy is based on sound map management, where they emphasise the capture of key objectives and the rational allocation of resources. The team prefers to stick to a long-term plan, slowly building up an advantage through controlling targets such as dragons and barons. Coordination between players is important, allowing for informed decision-making in stressful situations.
100 Thieves' experience in international tournaments allows them to remain calm under pressure. Although they did not participate in last year's Worlds tournament, their performances at the previous two championships provided the necessary experience. The team demonstrates excellent synergy and the ability to communicate effectively in all phases of the game, making them dangerous opponents. 100 Thieves often emerge victorious from difficult situations thanks to smart positioning and successful team battles. Their discipline and strategic approach usually gives them an advantage over more aggressive teams.
However, in their first Worlds play-in game, 100 Thieves sensationally lost to Rainbow7 1:2. Despite their experience and tactical preparation, they were unable to cope with the pressure of their opponents' aggressive style, resulting in an unexpected defeat. The performance of the Americans is disappointing, but they should not leave the World Cup so quickly.
Expert Betting Tips
Two teams were the main disappointments of the start of the play-in stage, but if we evaluate the strength of the two teams - 100 Thieves looks the clear favorite, the Japanese showed nothing in their match.