Kim 'Soulkey' Min-chul overcomes 0-2 deficit to beat defending champion and reach ASL Season 22 Finals
Kim 'Soulkey' Min-chul pulled off a stunning comeback in the second match of the Google Play ASL Season 22 semifinals. After dropping the first two maps, he rallied with four straight victories to eliminate defending champion Park 'Soma' Sang-hyun and secure his spot in the grand finals.
The match, held on October 6 at the FreakUp studio in Seoul, was a rollercoaster of emotions. Park 'Soma' Sang-hyun appeared to be in total control during the first two maps, Backrooms and AttitudeSE. By utilizing aggressive Zergling harass and effective Mutalisk/Scourge control to pressure worker lines, 'Soma' quickly built a commanding 2-0 lead.
The momentum shifted on Knockout, where Kim 'Soulkey' Min-chul managed to stabilize his economy and win a crucial aerial engagement, bringing the score to 2-1. 'Soulkey' continued his resurgence on Aeolus and OdysseyRE, utilizing superior Zergling mobility and precise Mutalisk movements to dismantle 'Soma's' production infrastructure and force a fifth map.
In the decisive sixth map on Colorless Fate, Kim 'Soulkey' Min-chul showcased why he is considered one of the top Zerg players this season. He maintained relentless pressure on the opponent's natural expansion and main base, effectively neutralizing 'Soma's' defensive attempts. The 4-2 victory marks 'Soulkey's' return to the ASL finals for the first time in three seasons.