Buzz
(Motherland) - Vietnamese fans also predict the squad that will be chosen for the upcoming ASIAD when SofM takes the head coach position.
In the afternoon of May 18, VIRESA (Vietnam Electronic Entertainment Sports Association) officially announced that SofM would be the head coach of the Vietnamese League of Legends team for the upcoming ASIAD. Although there has been information a few days ago, the official announcement still excites Vietnamese fans immensely.
With SofM sitting in the hot seat of the Vietnamese LMHT team, many fans begin to predict the lineup that will compete at the upcoming ASIAD alongside the former Weibo Gaming (WBG) star. And some of the best names have been selected, based on the performances of these players from before until now.
Kiaya (Top Lane)
This is perhaps the least controversial position, as Kiaya has always been considered GAM's best player in all circumstances. The player born in 2001 has always been GAM Esports' reliable anchor throughout many seasons. Even when the gameplay revolves around developing strong Marksmen, Kiaya still receives many resources. The international professional community also acknowledges that Kiaya was GAM's only bright spot at MSI 2023.
Levi (Jungle)
In the current VCS scene, only SofM can compete for Levi's Jungle position. And with the former LPL star taking the coaching seat, Levi has no more rivals. Furthermore, alongside experience and influence, Levi also showcased consistent performance throughout Spring 2023. It's just unfortunate for Levi that his and GAM's gameplay didn't bring surprises at MSI 2023. However, fans can still trust Levi for this ASIAD.
Kati (Mid Lane)
This is one of the trickier positions to predict, as Kati tends to drastically decline in performance on the international stage. However, according to many assessments, it will be tough for anyone to compete for Kati's position. Gloryy or Dia1 still lack experience. Meanwhile, Froggy hasn't shown much difference compared to Kati at MSI 2022 or last year's Worlds Finals. Considering the Mid Laners currently in VCS, perhaps Kati is the most plausible name to appear at the end-of-year ASIAD.
Slayder (Marksman)
In reality, in the current VCS, there are still Artemis and Sty1e to compete with Slayder. However, it's unlikely anyone can surpass the newcomer of GAM Esports. Slayder may lack international experience, but he is an experienced Marksman. Moreover, Slayder's skills have been proven over many years of competition. He undoubtedly inspires more confidence than Sty1e or Artemis for the Vietnamese national team lineup.
Bie/Zin (Support)
Bie once showcased his abilities while wearing GAM's jersey. However, when he moved to Team Whales (TW), Bie somewhat failed to demonstrate himself. It's true that his teammates at TW couldn't match GAM's level, but it cannot be denied that Bie can only maximize his potential when facing worthy teammates.
As for Zin, he had a career full of ups and downs before joining GAM. After donning the black and gold jersey, Zin quickly made GAM fans forget about Bie. Besides his playmaking abilities, Zin can also make precise calls. The Support position will surely be a fierce competition between two players who have been and are still with GAM. Not to mention Taki and Palette, who are also promising names.
Conclusion
Members of the Vietnamese LMHT national team coaching staff will have to consider very carefully whom to choose and whom to drop. Every selection will bring controversy, and surely, only practical results will be the most satisfactory answer.
