LNG vs WBG: Who will win the S14 Worlds Quarterfinals Showdown?
With LNG and WBG set to clash in the League of Legends S14 World Championship quarterfinals, fans are hotly debating which Chinese team has the edge to emerge victorious in this high-stakes best-of-5 series.
The highly anticipated quarterfinal matchup between LNG and WBG at the 2024 League of Legends World Championship is nearly upon us. This all-Chinese clash promises to be a fiercely competitive affair between two teams that are very familiar with each other from the LPL. Let’s dive into some of the key factors and storylines that could decide the outcome.
Recent form favors LNG, who went a perfect 3-0 in the group stage including an impressive win over tournament favorites DAMWON KIA from the LCK. LNG seem to be peaking at the right time, with stars like Zika and Scout playing exceptionally well. The bot lane of Light and Hang has also been very consistent. LNG’s strategic preparation appears sound, as they successfully piloted multiple team compositions during groups.
In contrast, WBG had a bumpier 2-1 record in groups with close series against Fnatic and DK. However, counting out WBG would be a mistake. This veteran roster led by legendary mid laner Xiaohu has a history of elevating their play in crucial high-pressure series. WBG have proven exceptionally clutch in Game 5s over the past two years. They also have the stylistic flexibility to adapt their drafts and playstyle on the fly.
The mid lane matchup between Xiaohu and Scout, former teammates on EDG several years ago, will be crucial. Both are mechanical marvels capable of taking over games, but Xiaohu’s years of experience in domestic and international playoffs could give him a slight mental edge in this type of series.
Jungle will be another key position to watch. Tarzan gave DK’s Canyon all he could handle in groups with creative off-meta picks like Morgana. His synergy with WBG’s solo laners, especially top laner Breathe, has been excellent and unlocked creative gank paths. Meanwhile, LNG will hope their star jungler Clid can match Tarzan’s early game impact and get Zika and Scout ahead.
Ultimately, this series feels like a slight edge for LNG given their dominant group stage and the individual form of their players. But WBG’s resilience, adaptability and clutch factor means they can never be counted out. Xiaohu and company will throw everything they have at LNG to keep their Worlds dreams alive.
No matter who emerges victorious, fans around the world are hoping for a memorable five-game series befitting two of the LPL’s proudest and most accomplished franchises. Years from now, we may look back on this quarterfinal as the latest chapter in the epic Xiaohu vs Scout rivalry that has spanned multiple teams since 2016. On October 15, 2024, only one of these legends will move one step closer to achieving their ultimate dream of holding the Summoner’s Cup.