Defending the nation's honor: China retains esports title at Asian Games

The final was not without jeopardy. China faced early setbacks in the third and fourth games, while Malaysia, at one point, came close to turning around a large deficit in vital in-game resources.

"We were very nervous," Li said. "But our lineup was built for the mid-to-late game, so we knew we just needed to stay steady and get through the early stage."

For Li, however, the significance of the victory went beyond the game itself.

"When you represent your country, the sense of national honor is very important," he said. "This opportunity to compete for the country is especially precious for me, and for all of us."