Fnatic vs MAD Lions

Finally, to close out the day, we have an absolute barnburner on our hands: Fnatic vs. MAD Lions.

First of all, this is, without a doubt, one of the most fascinating and exciting match-ups in the entire region. It is basically a fight between the second and third best teams Europe has to offer, and to make matters even better, both teams are insanely aggressive, stacked with talent, and are unafraid of skirmishing from the very get-go.

What's not to like?

Perhaps more importantly, both challengers want to start Summer off with a bang and secure their spot at the upcoming World Championship in China. As things stand, both are bound to succeed in their efforts as they're a cut above the rest, which doesn't mean they're not in direct competition for playoff and Worlds seeding.

Getting a win here is important not just for everyone win/loss tally but also for momentum. The team that wins here will be deemed as the second best until proven otherwise. On the one side, we have a legendary, competitive giant with a breadth of experience and talent; on the other, we have a rookie squad with nothing to lose, a team graced with supreme flexibility and a penchant for theatrics. MAD Lions can seemingly go for any team comp and still pull it off with relative ease. They're deceptively capable and have earned their spot at the top. Fnatic, however, is a unique beast in every sense of the word. They're unrelenting in nature and this line-up, in particular, is especially cohesive and willing to engage. Watching them play is an absolute thing of beauty, and their 3W-0L record so far tell you all you need to know when it comes to overall strength and potential.

They've wasted no time in letting everyone know they mean business. Unlike in year's past, they didn't start slow or fumble their way to the top. Instead, they've dominated beyond measure and are looking like the most cohesive team at the moment.

MAD Lions are an insanely talented line-up and have been drafting some equally impressive team comps throughout their first three games. Everyone's well acquainted with their potential, but betting against Fnatic feels like an ill-advised decision at this point in time. Their experience, their mental fortitude and ability to capitalize on small mistakes are mind-blowing. They're doubling down on their biggest strengths and should be more than capable of responding to whatever MAD has in store.

Either way, we should be in for some exceptional League of Legends.