TSM’s underdog strategy for LCS Summer 2021: Analysis and comeback potential
The Underdog Mentality
In a surprising shift for the legendary organization, TSM head coach Soren ‘Bjergsen’ Bjerg has officially branded his team as underdogs heading into LCS Summer 2021. This marks a dramatic departure from TSM’s traditional position as North America’s most dominant League of Legends franchise.
Following their elimination from MSI 2021 contention after a decisive 3-1 defeat against Team Liquid in the LCS Mid-Season Showdown, Bjergsen sees potential in his squad’s unexpected position. “We’re flying under the radar now,” the coach explained, “and that might be exactly what this young roster needs.”
The underdog label represents a strategic shift for TSM, who have historically been the team to beat in the LCS. After finishing third in Spring 2021, Bjergsen believes this new identity could work to their advantage, allowing them to develop without the intense scrutiny typically directed at the organization.
Mid-Season Showdown Analysis
The LCS Mid-Season Showdown revealed significant gaps in TSM’s gameplay, particularly in their series against Team Liquid. While the 3-1 scoreline suggests dominance, Bjergsen noted that key moments decided each game – especially around objective fights in the bottom river area.
Liquid’s top laner Barney ‘Alphari’ Morris demonstrated why he was the Season MVP runner-up, outperforming Heo ‘Huni’ Seung-hoon across multiple champion matchups. Meanwhile, substitute jungler Jonathan ‘Armao’ Armao proved unexpectedly effective against TSM’s Mingyi ‘Spica’ Lu, particularly on his signature Hecarim pick.
“What hurt most wasn’t the loss itself,” Bjergsen reflected, “but seeing how small mistakes at critical moments cost us entire games. Against top teams like Liquid and Cloud9, you can’t afford those lapses.” This analysis forms the foundation of TSM’s preparation for the Summer Split.
Summer Split Preparation
TSM’s coaching staff faces multiple challenges preparing for the Summer Split. The team must address their late-game decision making while maintaining the early-game strengths that kept them competitive against top teams.
“We’re not making excuses,” Bjergsen stated. “Liquid and Cloud9 are simply better teams right now. But the gap isn’t insurmountable.” The coach emphasized that Summer performance will depend on improving individual mechanics and team coordination, particularly in high-pressure situations.
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Coaching Insights
Bjergsen’s transition from star mid laner to head coach has been one of the most watched storylines in the LCS. The legendary player admits the adjustment has been challenging, particularly in developing his coaching methodology.
“As a player, I could just say ‘do this’ and it would happen,” Bjergsen explained. “Now I need to help my players understand why we’re making certain decisions. It’s about creating learning moments, not just giving orders.”
Drawing from his own experiences with crushing defeats, Bjergsen knows words alone won’t solve TSM’s challenges. “The only thing that will make this better,” he concluded, “is coming back stronger in Summer and proving we belong at the top.”
With the LCS Mid-Season Showdown final between Liquid and Cloud9 approaching on April 11, TSM now turns its focus to the Summer Split and the road to Worlds 2021.
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