Worlds 2024 Play-In Preview: Analysis and Predictions

The League of Legends World Championship 2024 is about to begin, and all eyes are on the Play-In Stage, where eight teams will compete for a coveted spot in the Swiss Stage. While every team dreams of advancing to the main event, only the strongest will survive this intense double-elimination format.

With the competition set to start on September 25, 2024, let's take a closer look at the teams, their strengths and weaknesses, and who stands out as favorites and underdogs.

Teams Participating in Play-In Stage 2024


  
    
      Region
      Team
    
  
  
    
      LEC
      MAD Lions
    
    
      LCS
      100 Thieves
    
    
      PCS
      Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks
    
    
      VCS
      GAM Esports
    
    
      PCS
      PSG Talon
    
    
      VCS
      Viking Esports
    
    
      CBLOL
      paiN Gaming
    
    
      LLA
      Rainbow7

Region	Team
LEC	MAD Lions
LCS	100 Thieves
PCS	Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks
VCS	GAM Esports
PCS	PSG Talon
VCS	Viking Esports
CBLOL	paiN Gaming
LLA	Rainbow7

Favorites:

PSG Talon (PCS)PSG Talon is considered a strong contender in this Play-In Stage. They've consistently performed well internationally, and with their experience in the past World Championships, they have the necessary skills to top their group. Their ability to adapt and their understanding of macro play give them an edge over less experienced teams.
MAD Lions (LEC)MAD Lions, representing Europe’s LEC, are another favorite. Despite some inconsistency during the year, MAD Lions has proven they can deliver on the international stage, as seen in their past runs at Worlds. With a balanced roster and a knack for late-game teamfights, they are expected to secure one of the top two spots in their group.

Dark Horses:

100 Thieves (LCS)100 Thieves enters as North America’s representative, and while they might not be pegged as the strongest, they are a team with significant potential. Much will depend on their star players, particularly their bot lane duo. If they can find their form, 100 Thieves could surprise other teams and push deep into the Play-In Stage.
paiN Gaming (CBLOL)Representing Brazil, paiN Gaming has always been a fan-favorite from CBLOL, and this year, they bring in a seasoned roster. While they may be underdogs against the likes of MAD Lions or PSG Talon, paiN has the individual talent to upset stronger teams and make a serious run for the Swiss Stage.

Underdogs:

Viking Esports (VCS)Viking Esports, a lesser-known team compared to VCS stalwarts like GAM Esports, face a steep challenge. While Vietnam has a reputation for producing aggressive and mechanically talented players, Viking lacks the international experience of other teams. Their path through Play-Ins could be difficult, but VCS teams have pulled off surprises in the past.
Rainbow7 (LLA)Latin America’s Rainbow7 has consistently found themselves in the Play-In Stage, but despite several attempts, they’ve struggled to make it past stronger international teams. Their road to the Swiss Stage will be tough, especially with teams like 100 Thieves and PSG Talon in the mix. Unless they pull off some upsets, their chances of advancing look slim.

Predictions:

Teams Most Likely to Advance:PSG Talon and MAD Lions are the top candidates to qualify directly for the Swiss Stage based on their experience and consistent performances.
Teams in Danger of Early Elimination:Viking Esports and Rainbow7 will need to step up if they want to avoid an early exit. Their lack of international success and tough competition put them at a disadvantage.

Key Matchups to Watch

September 25: MDK vs VKEThis opening match sets the tone for both teams, with Viking Esports needing an early win to build momentum. A loss here could send them spiraling into the lower bracket.
September 26: 100 Thieves vs Rainbow7This match is crucial for both teams’ chances. 100 Thieves will be looking to dominate, while Rainbow7 will need to pull off a significant upset to stay in contention.
September 27: Lower Bracket Elimination MatchesEvery match is do-or-die here, with the lower-bracket elimination games promising intense action as teams fight to keep their Worlds hopes alive.

Conclusion

The Play-In Stage of Worlds 2024 promises high-stakes drama, where every game can change the fate of these teams. While PSG Talon and MAD Lions look set to take top spots, the battle for survival will be fierce, with 100 Thieves and paiN Gaming fighting for upsets. The action will be fast, chaotic, and full of surprises — don’t miss a moment!

Tune in starting September 25, 2024, to catch all the matches live and follow your favorite teams as they fight for their place in the Swiss Stage!

Be sure to catch the games on Twitch or the official LoL Esports site, starting at 15:00 Kyiv time each day!