Fnatic vs Rogue

Finally, to close out the week, we have an absolute spectacle (by LEC standards) on our hands: Fnatic vs. Rogue.

Whenever Fnatic steps foot on stage to compete, there's a reason to tune in. By the same token, Rogue have built a similar reputation over the last couple of months. This game should, by all means, entertain us beyond measure. It's also somewhat similar to the G2 Esports vs. Excel game preceding it, although it is by no means as extreme. Both Fnatic and Rogue have pretty much locked in their playoff spots, but there's still a lot to fight for.

Fnatic, for example, want to tie G2 Esports for first place or, at the very least, secure second, as that'll give them a noticeable upper hand once the playoffs come around. Rogue, on the other hand, are neck and neck with MAD Lions and Misfits Gaming. Sure, they're gonna compete in the playoffs, but getting the best seeding possible is what matters most right now. There's a huge difference between being ranked sixth or, say, fourth, and while many people had Rogue slotted right behind Origen, that position is no longer a given.

Fortunately, MAD Lions have Origen and Fnatic lined up for next week, so it's fair to say that Rogue -- if they play their cards right and do what most people expect them to -- will be able to lock down that oh-so-important fourth place finish. Still, the margin for error is extremely small and they definitely need to step up and not implode in the slightest.

Fnatic, on the other hand, are about as big of a challenge as you can get these days. They're insanely dominant, aggressive, flexible, and have shown no willingness to stop any time soon. They're not perfect, but they're all on the same page and bravado and talent are more than enough to brute force things should the need arise. They can go for any play and, odds are, they'll come out ahead. And even if they fail, they'll come back in a moment's notice and try again -- for better or worse. That's the 2020 Fnatic way, and watching them in action has been an absolute blast.

Do Rogue stand a chance? Well, in theory, yes. In actuality, however, the odds of them getting the win are extremely slim. Again, they're not non-existent, but Fnatic simply have too many tools to work with. They can get the win and attack from any angle and if their opponents aren't equally as sound and mechanically talented, they're bound to be overwhelmed. Still, Rogue is a feisty bunch and they never go down without a fight. Expect a chaotic, skirmish-heavy game that'll eventually go in Fnatic's favor.