In a surprising turn of events, JD Gaming (JDG) secured their spot in the semifinals of Worlds 2023 with the help of a single minion. Despite dropping the first game, JDG quickly adjusted and won the second game in just 25 minutes. With another victory, they took a 2-1 lead before KT Rolster (KT) showed signs of life in game four.
KT had the advantage in kills, gold, and objectives, putting them in a favorable position. At the 24th minute, they even managed to kill JDG’s Gragas and force their Lee Sin to reset. This gave them a numbers advantage at Baron, setting them up for success.
However, this was the moment that cost KT the game and the series. It all started when JDG cleared KT’s control ward in the bush near Baron. JDG’s Orianna and Kai’Sa positioned themselves around the top side of the pit, out of sight.
In a surprising move, Ruler’s Kai’Sa used Supercharge to sneak up on Bdd’s Orianna, dealing significant damage and quickly eliminating him. Ruler then flashed in to secure the kill on Lulu as well. This strategic aggression from Ruler pulled KT’s attention away from Baron, allowing JDG to secure it uncontested.
With four members of KT down, including their top laner Jax, JDG took the opportunity to take down the inhibitor at bot lane, evening out the gold. Four minutes later, JDG secured the fifth dragon spawn and the next Baron, further solidifying their advantage.
At the 32nd minute, JDG made their final push. They took down the mid inhibitor and Nexus towers, with knight consistently attacking the Nexus while Ruler engaged with KT’s remaining members. Although KT managed to kill two of JDG’s players and push the rest back, three Baron-empowered minions were left attacking the Nexus.
In a nail-biting moment, the last living cannon minion landed the final shot on the Nexus, bringing it down to zero and eliminating KT from the tournament. JDG emerged victorious and advanced to the semifinals.
This unexpected turn of events showcases the importance of every small detail in high-stakes matches like these. A single minion’s last shot proved to be the deciding factor, crushing KT Rolster’s dreams of advancing further in Worlds 2023.
Source: ONEESPORTS
