Fnatic vs LGD Gaming

What a spectacular way to close out the second day of groups. Fnatic vs. LGD Gaming is definitely a must watch, regardless of your allegiance. If Fnatic end up getting the win, they'll move to a very respectable 2W-0L record, therefore nearly solidifying their spot in the Knockout Stage. If, on the other hand, LGD get the win, they'll manage to create an immense amount of chaos in a group that's insanely close.

We've witnesses four teams that are all pretty similar in strength and potential, although they find success through slightly different means. Some eke out advantages in the draft, some in laning, whereas others prefer the thrill that comes with those oh-so-exciting late game brawls. Fnatic made quick work of the North American champions Team SoloMid, although they weren't punished as hard (draft-wise) as everyone thought they would. Therefore, even though they've gotten the win through legitimate ways, it's hard not to wonder what'll happen when teams start pinching Nemesis' champion pool or camping Bwipo. Fnatic is a very "streaky" team with high highs and abysmal lows, and you're never quite sure which shade of FNC will come out. Heck, there's very little rhyme or reason behind their inconsistencies, so it's impossible to bet on/against them with confidence.

Still, they did good and look great in the process. If you're a fan of the LEC, it's impossible not to be satisfied with their level of play, despite being pretty darn inconsistent throughout 2020.

LGD Gaming, on the other hand, managed to trade heavy blows with Gen.G in one of the most even and exciting games of the day. They were far from perfect and they made numerous egregious mistakes throughout the game, but they fought with a lot of heart and were close to turning things around. Individually, they were much better than was the case during the Play-Ins, and their teamplay improved a ton as well. No one's still quite sure how good they really are, but there's a reason for optimism going forward.

This match will give us a lot of information when it comes to gauging their overall strength and potential. They certainly have all the right tools to compete, but there are simply too many factors at play when it comes to LGD, and the odds definitely aren't on their side. They'll need to be perfect in more ways than one and prepare a very coherent and precise game plan for the boys in black and orange if they intend on actually trading blows.

Regardless, we're siding with Fnatic on this one as it's the only logical choice. They might be flawed, but they've done more than enough to warrant our benefit of the doubt.