Cloud9 vs DWG KIA: MSI 2021 betting analysis

The competitive League of Legends season reaches its first international peak as the 2021 Mid-Season Invitational commences with an explosive North America vs Korea showdown. This championship event brings together the world’s elite teams for a high-stakes tournament that sets the stage for the remainder of the competitive year.

Thursday’s inaugural match features Cloud9 representing the LCS against LCK champions DWG KIA. Both organizations secured their regional titles through dominant playoff performances, establishing themselves as the teams to beat in their respective leagues. As defending world champions, DWG KIA carries immense expectations into this tournament, having demonstrated nearly flawless coordination throughout their domestic season.

Beyond the obvious regional rivalry, this opening game delivers a compelling narrative between two mid lane legends. The strategic implications extend far beyond this single match, as both teams must also contend with DetonatioN FocusMe and Infinity Esports in their group. However, this particular confrontation stands out as the marquee matchup that could define the entire group stage.

The mid lane confrontation presents a historic clash of generations and playstyles. Cloud9’s Luka “Perkz” Perković brings championship experience from his tenure with G2 Esports, including multiple LEC titles and international success. His opponent, Heo “ShowMaker” Su, represents the new guard of Korean talent that has taken the world by storm with mechanical perfection.

These two elite players share extensive competitive history across multiple World Championships. Their 2019 encounter saw Perkz competing in the bot lane role, while their 2020 meeting occurred during the world finals. This MSI battle marks their first direct mid lane confrontation at an international event.

Analysts anticipate this matchup will showcase peak mechanical execution, with potential for solo kills during laning phase. The outcome of this central duel could very well determine which team secures victory, as both players typically serve as primary carries for their respective squads.

The jungle dynamic introduces another critical battle zone. Robert “Blaber” Huang’s aggressive, proactive style contrasts sharply with Kim “Canyon” Geon-bu’s methodical, calculated approach. Since his dominant performance at Worlds 2020, Canyon has maintained nearly perfect form, making him one of the most formidable junglers in the world.

Strategic consideration: The jungle meta undergoes significant transformation with MSI’s implementation of patch 11.9. This creates potential volatility where adaptation speed becomes as important as raw skill. Teams that quickly master new champion priorities and pathing patterns could gain substantial advantages.

Common mistake: Overestimating early game advantages. Many bettors incorrectly assume strong laning phase performance automatically translates to match victory, but both teams demonstrate exceptional mid-to-late game teamfighting capabilities.

Cloud9 vs. DWG KIA rosters

Cloud9 roster:

• Top – Ibrahim “Fudge” Allami – Known for steady performance and remarkable improvement throughout the season
• Jungle – Robert “Blaber” Huang – Reigning LCS MVP brings aggressive early game pressure
• Mid – Luka “Perkz” Perković – The most accomplished Western player in history with multiple international titles
• Bot – Jesper “Zven” Svenningsen – Provides consistent damage output and veteran stability
• Support – Philippe “Vulcan” Laflamme – Aggressive playmaker who creates engagement opportunities

DWG KIA roster:

• Top – Kim “Khan” Dong-ha – Veteran presence with extensive international experience
• Jungle – Kim “Canyon” Geon-bu – Considered by many analysts as the world’s best jungler
• Mid – Heo “ShowMaker” Su – Mechanical prodigy with exceptional lane dominance
• Bot – Jang “Ghost” Yong-jun – Reliable carry who excels in teamfight scenarios
• Support – Cho “BeryL” Geon-hee – Innovative support player known for unconventional champion selections

DWG KIA is clear favorites to take down Cloud9 at MSI

DWG KIA’s status as world champions and dominant LCK winners positions them as formidable opponents with few discernible weaknesses. Cloud9 will immediately experience this competitive gap, explaining why sportsbooks heavily favor the Korean representatives. However, the best-of-one format during group stages introduces significant volatility that could benefit underdog teams.

Strategic betting approach: Consider the volatility inherent in international best-of-one matches. While DWG KIA demonstrates superior macro play and team coordination, Cloud9’s individual talent and aggressive style could capitalize on early game mistakes.

The odds structure reveals market expectations clearly. A DWG KIA victory returns only 1.23 on investment, reflecting their heavy favorite status. Conversely, a Cloud9 upset delivers substantially higher returns at 3.75 odds. This pricing indicates bookmakers acknowledge the upset potential while still favoring the defending champions.

Advanced betting strategy: For risk-averse bettors, the DWG KIA moneyline offers minimal but relatively safe returns. More aggressive investors might find value in Cloud9’s higher odds, particularly given the unpredictable nature of patch 11.9 adaptations.

Time-sensitive consideration: With the match scheduled for Thursday, May 6, odds are expected to remain stable barring last-minute roster changes or significant meta discoveries during scrims.

Common mistake to avoid: Overcommitting to underdog bets based on emotional regional loyalty rather than objective analysis. Always balance potential returns against realistic outcome probabilities.

The match between Cloud9 and DWG KIA kicks off on Thursday, May 6.

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