The Unpredictable EU LCS: Chaos Reigns in Season Eight
The first week of season eight play in the EU LCS was a whirlwind of surprises. Many teams stumbled, with only one emerging unscathed. This was unexpected, as preseason predictions had favored a few strong teams and written off others. However, after just one week, it’s clear that every team has a shot at success.
Teams Struggling to Find Their Footing
The bottom two teams in our rankings had a rough start:
10) Unicorns of Live (5 points, -2)
This team has fallen far from their previous finals contention. While Fabian “Exileh” Schubert has performed well individually, the team lacks coordination in the late game.
9) Giants Gaming (7 points, +1)
Giants managed to beat Unicorns but failed to capitalize on their victory against Vitality. They lacked the ability to transition from fights to objectives, allowing Vitality to make a comeback and secure the win.
Making Progress, but Still Figuring Things Out
The next four teams in our rankings are closely matched and have the potential to contend for the title:
8) ROCCAT (12 points, +1)
ROCCAT performed well against G2, utilizing clever strategies to gain an advantage. However, they suffered a loss against an undermanned Schalke 04 squad, which exposed their vulnerabilities.
7) FC Schalke 04 (21 points, -2)
Schalke showed promise with a strong victory over ROCCAT, but struggled against Misfits due to a difficult team composition. We can’t judge this team until they are at full strength.
6) Vitality (22 points, +1)
Vitality were the only team to achieve a 2-0 record in the first week. However, they didn’t showcase their full potential in their wins against H2k and Giants. They have room for improvement.
5) H2k (22 points, +1)
H2k started off poorly with a risky draft that backfired. However, they redeemed themselves with a victory over Fnatic, proving that they are a serious contender.
In the Upper Ranks: Building Momentum
4) Splyce (23 points, -1)
Splyce, despite their high ranking coming into the season, displayed some weaknesses. Their drafting strategies were questionable, and their synergy with jungler Andrei “Xerxe” Dragomir needs improvement.
3) Misfits (33 points, -1)
Misfits had a decent week, stabilizing with a solid win against Schalke. Though they lost to G2, it’s still early in the season and Misfits historically prioritize playoffs over regular season success.
2) G2 Esports (35 points, +2)
G2 quickly regained their position in the top two. Their focus on mid laner Luka “Perkz” Perkovic has paid off, and they dominated Misfits in their first match. However, they need to address some concerns, such as losing Barons against ROCCAT.
1) Fnatic (40 points, 4 first-place votes, no change)
Fnatic had a disappointing loss to H2k, exposing their lack of coordination in crucial late-game situations. While they were in control for much of the game, they struggled to close it out.
Despite the chaos and surprises of the first week, it’s still early in the season, and teams have room for improvement. The EU LCS is living up to its reputation as an unpredictable and thrilling competition.