Week 2 Recap: “Everyone Beats Everyone” in European LCS
Last week in the European LCS was filled with surprises and upsets. It seemed like anyone could beat anyone, which is a familiar theme for fans of the league. However, the question remains: Will Fnatic come out on top in the end?
One thing is certain, they can’t afford to drop games against teams like the Unicorns of Love.
Now, let’s take a look at what’s in store for week three.
Games to Watch
Day 1: G2 (3-1) vs Fnatic (2-2)
Predicting Fnatic’s performance right now is a challenge. Their gameplay has been inconsistent, with shining moments of brilliance followed by dark times. It’s understandable though, considering they have a new roster. They’ve shown that they can take the lead, but struggle when they’re behind. However, every stumble is a learning experience, and Fnatic will only grow stronger as the season progresses. The key is how quickly they can learn from their mistakes.
On the other hand, G2 has three wins under their belt against Elements, Giants, and Roccat. While these teams may not be the strongest contenders, G2 has displayed impressive gameplay, albeit with a lack of impact from their top laner. Their match against H2k will be a true test of their potential. They have the potential to be more than just “noob-slayers” and prove themselves against tougher opponents.
Prediction: Fnatic
I’m done trying to predict losses for Fnatic. They’ve proven me wrong time and time again. Maybe predicting a win will jinx them, who knows?
Day 1: H2K (3-1) vs Vitality (3-1)
H2K is currently the top team in the EU LCS. They have impressed me with their gameplay and have shown great potential. Jankos and Vander, in particular, have proven that they can still reach the heights they once achieved. Jankos, the “first blood king,” has been involved in every first blood of all their games so far. However, their opponents, Vitality, have been performing well too. They have looked strong in their victories against Fnatic, Splyce, and Origen. This match will determine who stays at the top of the table.
One area to watch in this match-up is the bottom lane. H2k’s Hjarnan and Kasing will face Vitality’s Forgiven and Vander. Another interesting matchup to look out for is the jungle, where H2k’s Shook will face off against Jankos. Currently, it seems like H2k has the advantage, but anything can happen.
Prediction: H2k
If Shook outplays Jankos, there’s a chance for an upset, but I don’t see it happening.
Day 2: Unicorns of Love (3-1) vs G2 (3-1)
The Unicorns of Love have proven me right so far. They may not have standout players, but they have shown great teamwork. Unfortunately, Diamondprox is currently unable to play due to visa issues, which will impact the team. However, their temporary replacement, Djoko, will need to step up and match Diamond’s performance. G2, on the other hand, is a strong team and one of the contenders for a playoff spot. The key for UOL is to keep their top laner, Vizicsacsi, ahead of G2’s Kikis.
Prediction: G2 if Djoko doesn’t blend well, UOL if he does
This is a tough one to predict. If Djoko fits in well with the team, UOL has a chance to surprise G2. However, G2 has been in good form and it won’t be an easy win for UOL.
Special Upset Mention: Origen (1-3) vs Elements (3-1)
This would be a bold and crazy prediction. Elements’ score may be deceiving as they have only faced and beaten the bottom three teams in the league. However, their victory against Origen is a real possibility. Origen has been struggling lately, and Elements’ good form may give them the confidence they need to take down the struggling giants.
Origen fans, get ready for an intense match. It’s not guaranteed, but it’s a possibility. Pray to Gilius for some miracle plays from Origen.
Fantasy Forecast
Roccat owners, I apologize for my previous recommendation. Let’s hope they perform better this week.
Origen owners may finally have something to cheer about. Their matches against Roccat and Elements should result in high fantasy points. However, upsets are always a possibility, so proceed with caution.
Fnatic’s matches against G2 and Splyce could also lead to high fantasy points, especially if they perform well in the first game.
H2K and Vitality owners may have a tricky week, as both teams are strong and could potentially cancel each other out. H2K is the safer bet.
UOL is a wildcard this week. Their match against G2 could go either way, depending on how Djoko fits in with the team. It’s a gamble, so choose wisely.
If you have any feedback or want to discuss these predictions, feel free to reach out to me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SabrewoIf
All feedback is appreciated.
Images courtesy of Riot Games’ Flickr page. Check them out here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/100899330@N03/
European LCS, esports, League of Legends, Fnatic, G2, H2K, Unicorns of Love, Vitality, Origen, Elements, fantasy league, predictions