Worlds 2023 Swiss stage is starting on October 19 so let’s take a look at one of the most important matches of Round 1, the NA-EU battle between C9 and MAD.
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Worlds 2023 Swiss Stage – C9 vs MAD – October 19, 08:00 CET
With the introduction of the newest Worlds Swiss format, the top 16 teams will have to win three matches in order to qualify for the Knockout stage. To know exactly how the Swiss format works, check out our info page.
After the draw following the end of the play-in stage, C9 and MAD will clash together on Day 1 of Worlds 2023 Main Event. While they could’ve had worse matchups, it’s still an important series for both teams since it reignites the rivalry between the two western regions. In particular, Nisqy is the one who played on both teams, so this will likely have a deeper meaning for him. With that in mind, let’s see which team is favored going into the match.
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Similar but different at the same time
On paper, this matchup is totally a mess. It can go either way, as the two teams have good potential but both are also quite volatile in their performance. What I’m expecting, however, is MAD keeping up their playstyle of enabling their side lanes thanks to the jungle-mid duo of Nisqy and Elyoya.
With the new meta and more proactive champions, this is great for the Spanish jungler, who is known for having a strong early game presence. Nisqy, on the other hand, will likely have to play carry picks, something that he might struggle a bit in (except his Cassiopeia).
C9, instead, will have to rely on its bot lane and Blaber to find advantages. I don’t see Fudge overpowering Chasy, as that could be an even matchup, and EMENES will probably be neutralized in the mid lane as well. If C9 can break MAD’s ankles in the bottom lane, then their chances of victory will increase a lot.
On G2’s side, we have the bot lane of Hans Sama and Mikyx that can potentially go against the bot eastern bot lanes, and BrokenBlade has stepped up immensely towards the end of the LEC championship. Not to mention that Yike and Caps can swing the momentum if they are playing well on the day.
For now, though, I would probably favor MAD over C9, considering how the meta might benefit them more (based on what we saw from play-ins). It’s a slight margin, but it should give them the edge in the Bo1.
Prediction: C9 0 – 1 MAD
Read more: LoL Worlds 2023 Meta – Picks and Bans
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