DetonatioN Gaming vs Cloud9

This is where things get spicy (to say the least): DetonatioN FocusMe facing off against Cloud9 — a spectacular clash that is steeped in narratives and a match-up that has the potential to enter the annals of MSI! For all intents and purposes, this is the most important game of the tournament thus far for both of these teams, and it'll no doubt determine who'll get out of Group C and advance into the Rumble Stage. There's so much on the line, although it's worth mentioning that Cloud9 and DFM sit at opposite ends of the spectrum — everyone expects Cloud9 to make it out, whereas DFM sort of flew under the radar. The Japanese region is by no means as wealthy or developed as the LCS, so it's only natural that no one thought of them much coming into this year's MSI. But lo and behold — they've subverted everyone's expectations and have looked downright incredible against both C9 and, most importantly, DWG KIA. They've beaten the former (and in quite commanding fashion, too) and had nearly upset the LCK champions as well. All in all, they've done more than enough to warrant our benefit of the doubt.

To say that the pressure is mounting would truly be an understatement. Although, to be fair, most of that burden lies solely on Cloud9's shoulders. So many people will eagerly tune in, expecting them to dominate and get their hands raised. And, to be fair, it's not like that's an impossible outcome — Cloud9 have all the right tools to outclass DFM and make a statement. The only problem, though, is that they're out of sync and aren't playing much as a unit. Heck, we're putting it mildly here. Cloud9 have looked downright dreadful thus far, and their two-time MVP jungler Blaber has to shoulder the grunt of the blame. His inefficient pathing and inability to influence the map has left Cloud9 looking like a team out of place — a championship-worthy line-up that is completely out of its element. And that, needless to say, is quite a strange thing to behold, given just how much talent and experience they have underneath their banner.

Betting on DFM is extremely risky, but they've already beaten Cloud9 once and could, by all means, do it again. If that does end up happening, they'll not only make history but also pull off the biggest upset of the tournament thus far. Moreover, no one's expecting much from them which means they'll be able to play without pressure — a huge boon and arguably their most important asset coming into their match with the LCS champions.

All in all, it's an endlessly interesting game, one that is hugely important and will no doubt send shockwaves throughout the world of competitive League.

Cloud9 and DFM have the exact same overall tally (1W-2L), but it's the LJL champions who currently have the edge in their head-to-head record with the North America representatives. Moreover, the fashion in which their first game went down will surely empower DetonatioN FocusMe in all the right ways so betting on the underdogs, in this case, makes a fair bit of sense. Either way, we'll surely be entertained regardless of the final outcome!