In a stunning turn of events, Team BDS achieved a remarkable upset in the final match of the 2023 League of Legends World Championship play-in stage, causing the elimination of PSG Talon, the first seed from PCS, in an exhilarating reverse-sweep series.
The first five-game series was an incredible display of determination, adaptability, and resilience, keeping both on-site and remote fans on the edge of their seats.
The conclusion of the Worlds play-in stage promised to be dramatic, and the second matchup of the day did not disappoint. PSG Talon, previously undefeated, clashed with LEC’s 4th seed, creating anticipation for an intense showdown. The stakes were high, as the victor would secure a spot in the Swiss Stage, while the defeated team’s journey in the Worlds would abruptly end.
PSG Talon had displayed dominance throughout the tournament, showcasing exceptional team fighting, strategic decision-making, and drafting, establishing themselves as the most polished team at the event. On the other hand, BDS had a challenging start, losing to Team Whales in their initial match but recovering with a win against DetonatioN FocusMe, highlighting their resilience.
Although PSG Talon initially took a comfortable 2-0 lead in the series, demonstrating a level of control that made them appear unbeatable, BDS mounted an impressive comeback in the third game. Game four was a complete domination by BDS, bringing the series to an intense 2-2 tie, accompanied by the iconic Silver Scrapes theme music well-known to League fans.
The fifth and final game was a tense, nail-biting experience from the draft stage, with BDS locking in Darius for Adam. The European team maintained their momentum from the previous two wins, securing advantages with strong solo lanes and well-timed ganks from Sheo in the early stages. However, PSG Talon remained composed and executed a game-changing play, seizing the Baron and putting BDS on the defensive.
As the game approached the 40-minute mark, the outcome was uncertain, with both teams securing multiple Barons and reaching Soul point. PSG Talon managed to take down two of BDS’s inhibitors, but their base remained intact, resulting in each teamfight being a high-stakes standoff. In one of these pivotal teamfights, BDS aced PSG Talon and secured the victory, completing the remarkable reverse sweep.
This thrilling first reverse sweep of the 2023 World Championship will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the tournament’s most iconic moments. However, as the main event commences, fans can look forward to more legendary games and moments.