As the League of Legends World Championship approaches the end of the Swiss Stage, MAD Lions (MDK), KOI, and PaiN Gaming (PNG) have become the first teams to be eliminated from the tournament.
In a surprising turn of events, GAM Esports defeated MAD Lions, while Team Liquid secured their win against PaiN Gaming, knocking both teams out of contention. Let’s dive into the key moments from these matches and the current standings.
The Success of the Swiss Format
The Swiss format has gained tremendous popularity since its introduction in 2023, significantly boosting viewership. This system matches teams with the same win-loss record, leading to well-balanced and exciting matchups between different regions.
Over the weekend, Gen.G and LNG became the first teams to qualify for the quarterfinals with perfect records, defeating Hanwha Life and DK Plus, respectively. The losers will face Top Esports and FlyQuest next.
MAD Lions vs. GAM Esports: An Unexpected Outcome
The first best-of-three (BO3) of the day saw MAD Lions from the LEC face off against GAM Esports from the VCS. Although MAD Lions were the clear favorites, GAM Esports had no intention of being eliminated, and the series proved crucial for both teams.
- Game 1: MAD Lions dominated the first game, with Fresskowy’s Yone going out of control early, securing four kills by the 16th minute. With superior objective control and a growing lead, MAD closed out the game in just 21 minutes.
- Game 2: GAM responded quickly, led by Levi’s Wukong. His strategic early ganks and team fight executions helped GAM secure Cloud Soul and tie the series 1-1.
- Game 3: The final game saw a tense battle, with both teams knowing elimination was at stake. Despite drafting Yone again, MAD struggled as GAM’s Kiaya delivered a standout performance on Aurora (7/0/11), shutting down MAD’s Gnar and leading GAM to a 2-1 victory.
This victory kept GAM Esports in the competition, while MAD Lions were eliminated.
Team Liquid vs. PaiN Gaming: Dominance from the LCS
The second BO3 saw Team Liquid, North America’s second seed, face PaiN Gaming, the Brazilian champions. PaiN Gaming adopted a Nocturne-Orianna composition, aiming for swift eliminations, but Team Liquid had other plans.
- Game 1: Yeon’s Kai’Sa proved to be the star of the first game, carrying Team Liquid to victory and securing the first point of the series.
- Game 2: APA surprised everyone by picking Neeko in mid lane, a champion often seen as support during these Worlds. APA’s masterful play, including six kills by the 16th minute, overwhelmed PaiN Gaming. Team Liquid secured Baron Nashor and closed out the series 2-0 after 29 minutes, advancing to the next round.
Conclusion
The Swiss Stage at the 2024 League of Legends World Championship continues to deliver excitement and surprises. With teams like GAM Esports and Team Liquid standing out and MAD Lions and PaiN Gaming now out of the tournament, the competition is intensifying as we approach the final stages.
Each match grows more critical as teams fight to secure their place in the Worlds 2024 playoffs.
Worlds 2024: LNG and Gen.G are The First Teams to Qualify for the Quarterfinals