Team Liquid’s Impact discusses beating TSM with glacial comp

Having clinched the top position in the regular season standings, Team Liquid earned automatic qualification for the LCS Summer Split semifinals. This advantageous position allowed them to experiment creatively in their matchup against Team SoloMid.

The North American powerhouse deployed an unconventional glacial team composition, drawing inspiration from popular strategies in Teamfight Tactics. Spectators roared with excitement when veteran top laner Jung “Impact” Eon-yeong selected Volibear, a champion rarely seen in professional play. Broadcast analysts embraced the unconventional approach, humorously dubbing Yiliang “Doublelift” Peng and Jo “CoreJJ” Yong-in as the league’s most “chilled” bottom lane pairing.

“Ashe provided an enjoyable experience despite her meme status. Previously struggling with landing her ultimate ability consistently, extensive practice spanning thousands of games transformed her into a comfort pick. We approached the match with low expectations for victory while deliberately employing unconventional strategies. The ultimate satisfaction comes from achieving victory while simultaneously having fun with unconventional approaches,” Doublelift explained post-match.

The LCS broadcast team erupted in laughter when CoreJJ claimed they had “extensively studied TFT” specifically for this encounter. However, Doublelift clarified his personal stance, stating he doesn’t engage with the autobattler game.

“That particular game doesn’t appeal to me personally,” he commented. “Several teammates have developed significant addiction to it.”

Doublelift issued a warning to other North American organizations, indicating their approach would become “significantly more serious” now that the playoff stage has commenced.

How are you feeling about beating TSM with a “troll” comp?

Impact: The match didn’t generate significant pressure since it carried minimal importance for our standings. This freedom allowed complete champion selection liberty while maintaining performance standards. Our macro gameplay demonstrated exceptional coordination despite the unconventional picks.

What made you guys decide to play the glacial comp?

Teammates made spontaneous selections that appeared reasonably viable. The composition offered balanced attributes including frontline durability, consistent damage output, and carry potential.

It looked like you were getting a little frustrated at one point as CoreJJ switched between champions. What was going on there?

Volibear represented unfamiliar territory for me professionally. Initial apprehension transformed into confidence as I realized the opponent lacked matchup knowledge. This mutual unfamiliarity created an unexpected advantage.

Doublelift said you guys were addicted to TFT. How often have you been playing it?

My personal performance remains modest at Gold 1 ranking. Daily sessions typically involve one or two matches during breaks with teammates. Xmithie demonstrates exceptional proficiency, already reaching Diamond tier through extensive playtime.

How does it feel to have a guaranteed spot in the semifinals?

This situation feels familiar given our consistent top-two finishes. Demonstrating cohesive team coordination provides satisfaction, though practice sessions often involve experimental approaches. Current confidence levels remain high.

Who do you think it will be in the finals?

Predicting finalists remains challenging with multiple teams possessing winning potential.

Were there any teams that you have been surprised by this split?

CLG. I initially assessed their performance as subpar, but they’ve demonstrated significant improvement throughout the latter stages.

Cloud9 said that you guys are a whole different animal in the playoffs, when it’s best-of-five. Why is that?

Playoff matches generate heightened tension compared to regular season. Single losses during the split provide learning opportunities, while playoff elimination carries permanent consequences. This reality demands intensified focus.

Is there anything you feel your team could improve on going into the playoffs?

Maintaining strong solo queue performance remains crucial alongside mechanical skill refinement.

Do you feel a lot of pressure as the best team in the NA?

Pressure doesn’t factor into my mindset. Securing the top position in North America represents my primary objective. Consistent championship performance remains the goal, with aspirations to dominate regional banners. Competitive drive naturally opposes losing mentality.

How do you think NA stacks up against the other regions right now?

International competition presents challenges, though opportunities exist against Chinese teams. Their chaotic style contrasts with strong macro fundamentals.

Team confidence remains strong despite uncertainty about global competitive landscape.

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