MAD Lions Take Down Excel Esports

MA Dv XLBG
Image credit: Riot Games

The former rookies came out of a fairly close early game and showed Excel - and the rest of LEC - what mid-game dominance looks like to retain their joint first place with Rogue.

After a somewhat unexpected loss to Misfits Gaming, MAD Lions had to win against Excel Esports to stay in first place. Of course, the UK organization had other plans - and with a lot of teams tied in the middle of the table, every win would count. It did not take long for the teams to come to blows as a skirmish in the bottom lane just 4 minutes in ended in a 4v4 fight that MAD came out barely ahead in. The favorites retained a lead throughout the early game, but Excel would often deliver counterblows and did not fall too far behind. As the mid-game went on, however, the lions’ better teamfighting and vision control would give them the advantage several times and they quickly capitalized with several short towers.

A deathless fight 22 minutes in left MAD in control of the Baron pit and they quickly secured the objective. Perhaps expecting recalls, Excel opted to take a drake in return but MAD arrived quickly and caught them unprepared, leading to a 4:0 fight. Now with a big advantage, the Lions smashed into the enemy base, taking two inhibitors on the first push and then ending the game on the next attack. It was an impressive performance from a team that was surprisingly good in the spring and has only grown stronger in the summer.

For more game developments and esports content, check out the rest of our LoL coverage here!