Team Groove Triumphs in 'Universe League' Round 1 as Tensions Rise for Round 2

The ultimate winner of the first round of the 'Universe League' was Team Groove.

On the episode aired on the 6th, SBS's global boy group audition program 'Universe League' revealed the final rankings for the first round. The anticipation heightened as member changes were announced ahead of the second round.

In the main match of the first round, Team Rhythm took the lead by securing the first place. Team Groove and Team Beat followed in second and third places, respectively, accepting their interim rankings. The final rankings were determined by adding the bench match results, prompting bench players to give their all on stage.

Team Rhythm's bench prepared a performance of NCT U's 'Baggy Jeans.' Despite communication challenges due to diverse nationalities, leader Kwon Hee-jun's efforts kept the practice harmonious. However, tensions rose after the mid-point check. Once parts were assigned, Jin Ziming expressed dissatisfaction, saying, "If this is how it's going to be, send me back to China." The situation worsened when Aito missed practice due to health issues.

On stage, Team Rhythm's bench made several mistakes. Ayumu stumbled, and Aito's voice cracked, leaving the directors speechless. Despite the challenges, leader Kwon Hee-jun was named MVP, shedding tears as he recalled the tough practice period.

Team Beat's bench chose GOT7's 'Hard Carry.' With El Capitan's arrangement and new choreography, they aimed for a more intense performance. However, Nam Do-yoon, lacking idol trainee experience, struggled with the powerful choreography. Under leader Koo Han-seo's rigorous training, he gradually improved.

Nam Do-yoon delivered a decent performance on stage, resulting in a satisfactory show that relieved Team Beat's directors. The MVP was Kairi, recognized as the team's ace with idol experience.

Team Groove's bench prepared a different vibe with BTOB's 'Second Confession.' Despite harsh criticism from director Lee Chang-seop during practice, their performance impressed everyone with perfect harmony and skill.

Kim Ki-jung was named MVP for Team Groove's bench, receiving praise. Team Beat's main player Cha Woong-ki, who had trained with Kim Ki-jung in the past, was moved to tears, adding warmth to the moment.

A twist occurred in the final rankings revealed after the bench performances. Team Groove's bench scored higher than their main players, securing first place with 2353 points. Team Rhythm, initially leading, was overtaken due to their bench's poor performance, finishing second with 2257 points. Team Beat came in third with 1945 points.

The internal team rankings were also disclosed, reshuffling the main lineup. Notably, Kim Ki-jung, Hiroto, Yeo Kang-dong, and Bae Jae-ho moved from bench to main players in Team Groove. Team Rhythm, finishing second, saw their lowest-ranked players, Li Zinuo, Mac, and Royce, receive yellow cards. Team Beat, in third place, faced a crisis with six yellow cards, bringing their lowest six players closer to elimination.

The first round of the league wasn't just about penalties. The top two teams received player trade rights as benefits. Team Groove, in first place, used two trade rights to release Li Ziwei and Hiroto, acquiring Koo Han-seo from Team Beat and Kwon Hee-jun from Team Rhythm. Team Rhythm, in second place, used one trade right to release Royce and bring in Zuen from Team Beat.

The first round of the league brought significant changes with new main lineups and player trades. The restructured teams are set to tackle a new song mission in the second round. As the competition for a global boy group debut intensifies, anticipation builds for how the second round will unfold.

Lee So-jung, Ten Asia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr