Is G2 truly adept at countering the four-protect-one strategy, from their upset victory over RNG to their sweep against BFX?

In the loser's elimination round of the 2026 Global Pioneer Tournament, a significant upset unfolded. The tournament had seen multiple instances of BO5 sweeps before, and G2 once again triumphed with a 3-0 win, even against LCK's second seed! This inevitably evokes the phrase "anti-Korea heroes." While they couldn't withstand three rounds against BLG, and BFX even pushed BLG to a decisive game, they were completely swept by G2! It seems that when G2 is least favored, they thrive, revitalizing the status of the LEC region!

Previously, it was rumored that next year's LEC events might shift online due to stagnant international results and declining overall strength, leading to reduced investment. However, with a major victory over LCK, the situation has changed dramatically! At the moment of G2's win, everyone, including commentators, discussed the reason for their success: their innate ability to counter the four-protect-one system. From their upset win against RNG in S8 to their sweep of BFX now, they seem to possess a unique magic—a drive that surges whenever they face a four-protect-one strategy. Though RNG is no longer present, their legacy lives on in every team employing this tactic!

What is the four-protect-one strategy? It involves funneling resources around one player; once equipped, protecting him leads to victory, while his downfall means the team's collapse. BFX centered their four-protect-one around Diable, relying on it to eliminate T1 and DK! So, what is G2's secret, from their past upset against RNG to their current sweep of BFX?

Back when RNG lost to G2, aside from underestimating their opponent, the main reason was falling into G2's trap. G2 selected compositions focused on aggressive, skirmish-heavy play—avoiding prolonged engagements and opting for direct confrontations. Against BFX, G2's solution was to empower their mid and jungle, while choosing highly proactive snowballing compositions—strong early-to-mid game fighting setups. With this approach and BFX's impatience offering opportunities, G2 fulfilled their "Let's go G2" motto!

Additionally, G2's core player Hans Sama held his ground perfectly, facing the four-protect-one's "Little Pineapple" with proactive play. G2 maintained this mindset: engaging in mutual aggression—if they win, it's a huge gain; if they trade, it's equally beneficial. It must be said that BFX's four-protect-one execution couldn't compare to RNG's past performances, let alone stand up against G2! Even BFX fans commented, hoping the team would diversify their strategies, as this approach simply doesn't work! It remains to be seen whether G2 can bring some flair against the highly dominant GEN next—stay tuned!