Day 2 of the Worlds 2024 Play-In stage brings two critical matchups: Hawks Gaming vs GAM Esports and 100 Thieves vs Rainbow7. These games will play a significant role in determining which teams continue on to the next stage and who will need to fight their way through the lower bracket.

Hawks Gaming vs GAM Esports

Hawks Gaming, representing the combined LJL/PCS regions, have risen quickly in the competitive scene since their debut in 2020. Over the past few years, the team has steadily improved, peaking in 2024 with a top finish in the LJL Spring and Summer splits, securing their spot at Worlds. Their roster, led by veterans like Evi and DasheR, brings both experience and strong regional synergy. Marble in the bot lane has also been a key factor, providing consistent damage output in late-game scenarios.

The integration of LJL with PCS gave Hawks additional high-level competition, preparing them for international stages like Worlds. Their adaptable playstyle allows them to pivot between aggressive early-game strategies and patient late-game scaling compositions. This versatility will be critical in this matchup.

GAM Esports, on the other hand, are one of Vietnam’s most established teams. Despite a mixed international track record, GAM has a strong regional presence, winning multiple VCS titles. Their jungler, Levi, is the heart of the team, renowned for his aggressive plays and carry potential. In combination with Kiaya in the top lane, GAM’s top-side synergy is a major threat to any team they face.

GAM’s strength lies in their explosive teamfighting and ability to snowball leads off small advantages. They will likely try to gain control of the early game with their signature aggressive jungle and lane pressure, forcing Hawks Gaming into reactive plays. However, GAM has struggled in maintaining leads against stronger international opponents, which could be a vulnerability in this matchup.

Key Champions:

• Hawks Gaming: Jayce, Ahri, Kaisa
• GAM Esports: Aatrox, Lee Sin, Renekton

Analysis:

The game between Hawks Gaming and GAM Esports promises to be closely contested. Hawks’ experience against high-caliber opponents in the LJL and PCS makes them well-prepared, but GAM’s unpredictable, high-risk playstyle could turn the tide. Hawks will likely focus on controlling the map and scaling into the late game, while GAM will attempt to dominate the early stages with aggressive moves, especially through Levi's jungle presence. If Hawks can withstand the early aggression, their disciplined team play should give them the advantage in longer, more drawn-out games.

100 Thieves vs Rainbow7

100 Thieves enter this match as one of North America’s strongest teams. Despite an inconsistent 2023 season, the team has rebounded well in 2024, securing a top-3 finish in the LCS Summer Playoffs. Their roster, anchored by veterans like River in the jungle and Quid in the mid lane, has shown a knack for stepping up in crucial moments. Their playstyle revolves around controlling objectives and leveraging their strong teamfighting abilities in the mid to late game. Tomo and Eyla in the bot lane provide a reliable source of damage and utility, allowing 100 Thieves to scale confidently into the late game.

Throughout the LCS Summer 2024, 100 Thieves demonstrated resilience, overcoming tough opponents like Cloud9 in high-stakes matches. Their strengths lie in their ability to make calculated plays and adapt mid-game to the flow of the match, often turning disadvantages into victories through superior macro decisions and team coordination.

Rainbow7, representing the LLA, has been a dominant force in Latin America, but their international record remains underwhelming. They qualified for Worlds 2024 after winning the LLA Closing 2024. Summit in the top lane and Oddie in the jungle are key players who dictate Rainbow7’s early-game momentum. However, Rainbow7 has traditionally struggled when facing teams from more competitive regions due to their over-reliance on snowballing early advantages.

Rainbow7’s greatest challenge will be maintaining control throughout the game without faltering in the mid to late game, where 100 Thieves tends to excel. Their aggressive approach could backfire if 100 Thieves successfully neutralizes early threats, setting up the North American squad to take over the game later on.

Key Champions:

• 100 Thieves: Sion, Azir, Xayah
• Rainbow7: Gnar, Aphelios, Lulu

Analysis:

100 Thieves will likely look to play a controlled, methodical game, focusing on securing objectives like Dragon and Baron to build a lead in the mid and late game. Rainbow7 will need to bring their A-game in the early stages, as their best chance of victory lies in applying relentless pressure and forcing mistakes. While Rainbow7 has shown they can dominate in Latin America, this matchup against 100 Thieves presents a steep challenge, particularly due to the stronger macro play and team cohesion 100 Thieves has displayed in the LCS.

Conclusion

Both matches on Day 2 of Worlds 2024 are pivotal for the participating teams. Hawks Gaming and 100 Thieves are poised to showcase their strong regional playstyles, while GAM Esports and Rainbow7 will need to play aggressively and capitalize on early leads to stand a chance. As the Play-In stage continues, the competition intensifies, with teams like T1, BLG, and Gen.G waiting in the next stage to take on the winners.