Swiss Stage: Round 1
Hanwha Life Esports vs PSG Talon
Format: BO1
03.10.2024 20:00
Prediction for the match between Hanwha Life Esports and PSG Talon which will take place on October 3. Who will turn out to be stronger? Check the team conditions! Several betting options are available.
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In 2024, Hanwha Life Esports (HLE) finally managed to make a name for themselves on the domestic scene, making this Korean squad contenders for success, but not clear-cut favorites. Up until this point, the team has not been known for consistent performances in the LCK, although their past squad has had moments of brilliance, such as reaching the quarterfinals at Worlds 2021. However, that changed with the signing of Worlds champions Park Viper Do-hyun (2021 champion) and Kim Zeka Gong-woo (2022 champion). Along with former Gen.G players Choi Doran Hyeon-joon, Han Peanut Wang-ho, and Yoo Delight Hwan Joong, the team gained an impressive roster.
In the spring of 2024, HLE placed third, but by the summer they improved their synergy and finished the group stage in second place with a 14-4 record. In the playoffs, they beat T1 in the bottom set and then sensationally beat Gen.G in the final 3:2 to win their first LCK title. If the team can quickly adapt to the world metagame and keep their cool, they have a real chance of lifting the Cup.
PSG Talon
PSG Talon, the strongest team from PCS, entered the play-in stage at Worlds 2024 as favorites, but their path was not an easy one. The Asians started off with a series against paiN Gaming, losing the first map, but were able to come back and win 2:1. In the qualification match, PSG lost to MAD Lions 1:2 and found themselves in a decisive encounter against 100 Thieves. With strong play and better execution, PSG Talon came away with a solid 2:0 win, and Juan Maple Yi-Tan was named MVP for his great play.
PSG Talon have long dominated the Pacific region, especially after the PCS merger, which includes the best from Japan and Oceania. In 2024, the team had a strong showing at the Spring Split, finishing second and making the playoffs at MSI, where they reached the fifth match against Bilibili Gaming but eventually lost. They dominated again in the summer, losing only one game against Fukuoka SoftBank HAWKS in the PCS finals. The veterans Huang Maple Yi-Tang and Yu JunJia Chun-Chia, whose synergy is the backbone of the team, remain key players. To succeed at Worlds, PSG Talon will have to improve their game and learn how to beat the strongest opponents, but their experience and teamwork may bring unexpected results.
Expert Betting Tips
Bookmakers don't believe in PSG Talon at all, and at the recent MSI this team beat bigger names than Hanwha Life Esports on separate maps. Yes, the Koreans are the favorites and should take the victory to themselves, but the outsider will not leave the server without a fight.