The 2024 League of Legends World Championship promises to be an exciting spectacle, and the opening Play-In matches offer some intriguing matchups. Let’s break down two key matches: MAD Lions KOI vs VIKINGS Esports and PSG Talon vs paiN Gaming, analyzing the teams’ forms and their chances of victory.

MAD Lions KOI vs VIKINGS Esports

MAD Lions KOI is one of the strongest teams in the LEC. In 2023, they had an impressive run during the spring split but faced some challenges internationally and during the summer split. Despite reaching the top 8 at MSI 2023, they ended the summer split in a disappointing 7th place.

However, with a roster featuring Myrwn, Elyoya, and Supa, MAD Lions remains a formidable force. Their top champions, such as Fiora and K'Sante, have shown consistent results this season, positioning them well for the Play-In stage.

On the other side, VIKINGS Esports is a relatively new contender on the professional stage. After returning to competitive play recently, they performed well in VCS, but their international experience is limited. Key players like Nanaue and Shogun have potential, but their win rates on champions like Sylas and Gwen suggest they may struggle against more seasoned opponents.

Prediction: MAD Lions has the clear advantage due to their experience and more stable performances on the international stage. While VIKINGS Esports could offer some surprises, it’s likely that MAD Lions KOI will come out on top in this match.

PSG Talon vs paiN Gaming

PSG Talon has dominated their region, the Pacific Championship Series (PCS), throughout 2023, winning both the spring and summer championships. They’ve consistently been a strong international contender, placing in the top 3 at MSI 2021. Recent victories over teams like LOUD and Rainbow7 prove they’re in excellent form heading into Worlds 2024.

PSG Talon’s lineup, which includes Azhi, Junjin, Maple, Betty, and Woody, has been using champions like Gragas and Sejuani to great effect. Their midlaner Maple often shines with Tristana and Syndra, bringing both flexibility and power to the team's strategy.

Meanwhile, paiN Gaming is a veteran Brazilian team with a long history in the professional scene. After a second-place finish at CBLOL Split 1, they secured a victory in CBLOL Split 2, allowing them to qualify for Worlds 2024. Despite their experience, paiN Gaming has often struggled to perform internationally. Their best champions, like Kassadin and Jax, are strong, but the team as a whole tends to falter against tougher opponents.

Prediction: PSG Talon’s international experience and recent strong form make them the favorites in this match. paiN Gaming might put up a fight, but PSG Talon should be able to secure the victory.

Conclusion

• MAD Lions KOI are expected to beat VIKINGS Esports, although the match could be more competitive than expected.
• PSG Talon should comfortably defeat paiN Gaming due to their experience and strong form.

These matches will set the tone for the rest of Worlds 2024, and fans can expect thrilling performances right from the start.