exceL vs Origen

Arguably the first truly fascinating, "must watch" game of the day. Origen taking on Excel is not only a clash of two very talented line-ups, but also an opportunity for both teams to showcase their growth and overall potential.

Origen is fairly hard to read at the moment, and at times it can even be infuriating, especially if you're betting on/against them. Everyone's aware of their innate potential and overall strength, but they're just not that flexible or dangerous overall. Not, at least, when compared to some of their peers like G2 Esports or Fnatic. They're often too passive, slow, they eke out small advantages individually and then snowball them over drawn-out, prolonged periods of time. They're not the kind of team that's going to blow you away with their unrelenting aggression or mechanical prowess.

Instead, they take things slow, they go for surefire plays and rarely lose sight of the objective. Now, that's not bad per se, but such a playstyle and overall mentality simply won't be enough to take down the upper echelon of the LEC. In today's meta, you have to be creative, flexible, and a fair bit crazy. Origen, in a way, are none of that, and it certainly isn't for a lack of trying. After their experimentation last week, they decided to go back to what works for them and were immediately able to get a fantastic win over the surging MAD Lions. They were in control from the very get-go, they had a fantastic team comp, they played to their strengths and made very few mistakes in the process.

A "by the numbers" kind of game, just what they're known for. It wasn't spectacular in any way, but it was exactly what they needed: a calculated display of stellar macro and a deep understanding of the game. This win tied them with Fnatic, which is only fitting seeing how they're both fighting for second place behind G2 Esports. They're fairly similar in strength although it feels like the former "Kings of Europe" have much more long term potential.

This match is, therefore, a chance for Origen to further solidify their spot near the very top of the standings. They're one of the best teams in the region and getting a win here will only prove that their last week's failures were a product of unnecessary experimentation, rather than them actually imploding like in 2019.

As for Excel, they were able to get yet another solid win over SK Gaming which improved their overall tally to 4W-3L. They're a very solid playoff contender, and are far more dangerous and capable than most people give them credit for. Again, they're not a behemoth in the making, but with a fantastic coaching staff behind them (and more than enough talent within their ranks), they can pose a fascinating, layered challenge for anyone in the region -- even the big dogs.

Unfortunately, it feels like anything they can do, Origen can do better. They might be a bit more creative but they're not better lane for lane and they don't have nearly as enough experience nor drafting prowess. Still, they're a capable bunch and they'll surely bring the fight to Origen. Regardless of the final outcome, top-tier play should not be absent.