Royal Club and Fnatic were the last matchup for this season’s semifinals. Considering Royal’s aggressively decisive win streak over Group A’s undefeated contender OMG, it seemed Fnatic was in for a rough time.

The first game was not promising for Fnatic, even though xPeke was able to pick Fizz, Royal still dominated, controlling the map from the start of the game. By 20 minutes, Royal had their first Baron and an 8k gold lead that Fnatic, despite a good fight, never came back from.

Game two, Fnatic seemed to be on top, with well executed attacks and favorable engagements and Ahri snowballing mid; however, ending with the most kills, Fnatic wasn’t able to win the match. Royal may have been having trouble individually, but together they mowed down turrets. After a all-out brawl at Baron, Royal won the buff, with no hesitation they rushed for Fnatics base, taking the Nexus and winning the game.

With everything on the line, Fnatic ramped it up in game 3, taking more risks that seemed to pay off. After being stomped in game 2 by Royal’s Orianna mid, Fnatic first picked the champ. During the match, Fnatic made some clever plays that paved their way to victory. Twice, Fnatic seemed to narrowly escape death during team fights, but then surprised Royal with ganks to turn the match around indefinitely. At 30 minutes, Fnatic pushed and destroyed Royal’s Nexus, earning them their first win this matchup.

Game 4 would make it or break it for Fnatic; they seemed to be in control from mid to late game, picking up mid-game aces, leaving Royal balancing on the edge of disaster. However, the two teams were relatively even on objectives and close in gold. Fnatic had momentum, but not exactly the lead. Royal proved this at about the 35 minute mark when they caught Cynanide out of position, killing him and members of Fnatic who tried to save him. Royal took advantage of their small victory by taking down the mid inhibitor. Fnatic’s momentum was, within an instant, beginning to crumble. Two Barons and a few turrets later, Royal took Fnatic’s Nexus, securing their spot at finals and ending Fnatic’s season 3.

Day 2 Semifinals Recap LOL