Worlds 2025 Semifinals: KT Rolster’s Upset and T1’s Historic Quest
The air in Shanghai’s Mercedes-Benz Arena is electric as the 2025 League of Legends World Championship semifinals unfold, delivering a mix of upsets and high-stakes drama. With one finalist already locked in after a domestic showdown, all eyes now turn to a historic clash between titans. Here’s everything you need to know about the conclusion to the knockout stage.
KT Rolster Dethrones Gen.G
The first semifinal on November 1st saw an intense battle between two Korean powerhouses, Gen.G and KT Rolster. While many anticipated a close series, what transpired was a stunning display of dominance from the underdogs.
A Shocking 3-1 Upset
In a result that sent ripples through the community, KT Rolster decisively defeated Gen.G 3-1, punching their ticket to the Grand Final and eliminating one of the tournament favorites. Gen.G, who had confidently dispatched Hanwha Life Esports 3-1 in the quarterfinals, found themselves outmaneuvered by a clinical KT Rolster.
KT Rolster’s path to this moment was paved with a dominant 3-0 victory over CTBC Flying Oyster in their own quarterfinal match. Their momentum proved overwhelming, leading them to victory and securing a spot in the championship match in Chengdu. The series featured standout performances, with players like KT’s Bdd on Azir making game-changing plays.
T1 vs. Top Esports
The second semifinal, scheduled for November 2nd, is a matchup for the ages, pitting the reigning two-time world champions, T1, against Top Esports (TES), the last remaining team from China’s LPL. The narrative is rich with history and pressure, making this more than just a game.
Legacy on the Line
For T1, this is a chance to reach a fourth consecutive World Championship final—an unprecedented feat that would further solidify their dynasty. Their journey here was a nail-biter, involving a grueling 3-2 victory over Anyone’s Legend in the quarterfinals.
On the other side, Top Esports carries the hopes of an entire region. After eliminating G2 Esports 3-1 in the quarters, they are the LPL’s last hope to bring the Summoner’s Cup back to China. For TES, this is a chance to make their first-ever Grand Final appearance and challenge the Korean titans.
A Battle of Historical Proportions
The statistics heading into this match are staggering and paint a picture of a true David-versus-Goliath scenario.
- T1 boasts a perfect 12-0 record against LPL teams in best-of-five series at Worlds.
- Top Esports has never won a best-of-five series against an LCK team at an international event.
While the two teams have met before in 2024, with T1 generally holding the upper hand, this semifinal is where history will be made. Can T1 maintain their flawless record and continue their march towards a three-peat, or will Top Esports finally break the curse and topple the champions?
Looking Ahead to the Grand Final
The winner of the T1 vs. TES showdown will advance to face KT Rolster in the Grand Final. The ultimate battle for the Summoner’s Cup is set for November 9th at the Dong’an Lake Sports Park Multifunctional Gymnasium in Chengdu. As Worlds 2025 reaches its climax, the global League of Legends community watches with bated breath to see which team will etch their name into history.
