your considered opinion concerning the two sentences

[vil]

Dear teachers,

Would you be kind enough to give me your considered opinion concerning the two sentences below?

It was an advantage to have that team as our opponent in the first round.

It was an advantage having that team as our opponent in the first round.

V

[Pokemon]

An infinitive is more common in those constructions. A gerund is sometimes used for stylistic purposes.

[vil]

Hi Pokemon,

Thank you for your kindness.

V.