Three Bold Predictions for the Worlds 2023 Play-In Stage

Prediction #1: WQS Winner Dominates the Play-In Stage

We are confident that the winner of the Worlds Qualifying Series (WQS) will have a smooth journey to the main event. This intense showdown between the fourth-place teams from Europe and North America will kick off Worlds on October 9th. The victorious team will secure a spot in the play-in stage bracket.

Whether it’s Team BDS or Golden Guardians, we expect the WQS winner to dominate the play-in stage. Both teams are significantly stronger than the competition in the initial phase of the tournament. Even on their worst days, the fourth-best team from a major region should outperform any minor region squad.

Our prediction leans towards Golden Guardians winning the WQS and joining fellow LCS teams Cloud9, NRG, and Team Liquid in the Worlds Swiss stage.

Prediction #2: LOUD Breaks Through the Play-In Stage

LOUD, a formidable team from CBLOL, is poised to make a breakthrough at Worlds. They have all the necessary components for success. Quietly, they have become one of the hottest teams in professional League of Legends. They dominated the CBLOL, finishing with an impressive 22-4 record.

LOUD returns to Worlds with four-fifths of the roster that came close to advancing last year. The new bracket system presents both advantages and challenges for them. On one hand, they have a relatively easier path to the Swiss stage, needing only three series wins. On the other hand, they face tough opponents like GAM Esports from Vietnam and likely PSG Talon, who defeated them 2-0 at MSI.

However, we believe that this time, LOUD will overcome their previous struggles against major region teams. With a favorable format and ample experience, they have a strong chance of making it to the final field of 16.

Prediction #3: Minor Region Teams from Asia Struggle

Minor regions, particularly the LJL and PCS, experienced a surge in performance two years ago. However, they have since fallen behind and are unlikely to reach those heights again. Despite being represented by the same teams, these regions have not been able to replicate their previous success.

At MSI earlier this year, major region teams dominated the tournament, leaving no room for minor region teams to shine. PSG Talon was eliminated by teams from the LEC and LCS, while DetonatioN FocusMe failed to win a single game. We anticipate a similar outcome at Worlds.

Although the play-in format guarantees at least one minor region team in the Swiss stage, we predict that they will struggle to match their earlier achievements. The competition has become tougher, and these teams are unlikely to reach the same level as they did at the beginning of the decade.

Worlds kicks off with the Worlds Qualifying Series on October 9th, followed by the play-in stage on October 10th. Stay tuned for an exciting start to the tournament!