Kha Y Tran On March 1, 2026, Invictus Gaming (IG) faced Ninjas in Pyjamas (NIP) in the LPL 2026 Split 1 Playoffs. The BO5 series quickly became one of the most exciting matches of the round. Both teams were fighting to stay alive in the tournament. Therefore, the pressure was extremely high.
After four intense games, IG secured a 3–1 victory. As a result, they advanced further in the playoffs. Meanwhile, NIP were eliminated from the competition.
Watch the match highlights at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vpn4CSobNeE
Match Overview
- Tournament: LPL 2026 Split 1 Playoffs
- Format: BO5
- Result: Invictus Gaming 3 – 1 Ninjas in Pyjamas
- Match Date: March 1, 2026
Detailed Game-by-Game Breakdown
Game 1: IG Control the Map and Snowball the Game
In the draft phase, IG focused on a teamfight composition with strong engage tools. Meanwhile, NIP picked a poke-oriented lineup that relied on distance and controlled fights.
At the 5-minute mark, Wei successfully ganked the bottom lane. As a result, Photic secured first blood. This early play helped IG take the first dragon.
Soon after, IG began to control the map. Rookie frequently roamed to the side lanes. Because of this, NIP struggled to defend their towers.
By the mid game, IG had already built a clear gold lead. Then, at minute 26, they secured the first Baron of the game.
With the Baron buff, IG pushed multiple lanes. Consequently, NIP lost several towers. The pressure quickly became overwhelming.
After around 30 minutes, IG won a decisive teamfight. They finished the game with a 19–6 kill score and took a 1–0 series lead.
Game 2: NIP Strike Back with a More Aggressive Approach
However, NIP did not give up easily. Instead, they changed their strategy in Game 2.
From the early minutes, Guwon applied heavy pressure on both top and mid lane. Because of this, NIP gained control over the early tempo.
At minute 10, NIP forced a fight near the dragon pit. This time, they executed the fight perfectly. As a result, they secured multiple kills and the dragon.
Meanwhile, Assum performed extremely well in the bottom lane. He constantly pressured Photic and won several trades.
As the game progressed, NIP continued to take objectives. Additionally, they maintained strong vision control around the map.
Eventually, after about 42 minutes, NIP secured the victory with a 21–11 kill score. Therefore, the series was tied 1–1.
Game 3: IG Completely Dominate
In Game 3, IG quickly regained their momentum.
Early in the game, Wei ganked mid lane and helped Rookie secure the first kill. As a result, IG gained early control of the map.
Shortly after, IG began invading NIP’s jungle. This limited NIP’s farming options and reduced their vision control.
At minute 15, IG won a major fight near the Rift Herald. Consequently, they gained a large gold lead.
From that moment on, IG dominated the game. Rookie created constant pressure in the mid lane. Meanwhile, Photic dealt massive damage in teamfights.
Because of their strong coordination, IG snowballed the game quickly. Finally, after just 27 minutes, they closed the game with a 24–10 score.
As a result, IG moved ahead 2–1 in the series.
Game 4: IG Close Out the Series
In Game 4, NIP had no room for mistakes. They needed a win to force Game 5.
At first, the game looked balanced. Both teams traded objectives and small fights. However, IG slowly gained control of the map.
At minute 18, IG secured an important dragon. This objective gave them a small but important advantage.
Later, at around minute 30, IG found a crucial pick on two NIP players. Immediately afterward, they secured Baron.
With the Baron buff, IG pushed aggressively across the map. NIP tried to defend their base. However, IG’s teamfighting was simply stronger.
After nearly 40 minutes, IG won the final fight. They finished the game 15–12 and destroyed the Nexus.
Therefore, IG won the series 3–1.
Overall Draft Analysis
Throughout the BO5 series, draft strategy played a key role.
In most games, IG selected champions with strong engage and objective control. Because of this, they could start fights whenever they wanted.
Their strategy focused on three main elements:
- Rookie as a playmaker in the mid lane
- Wei controlling the jungle and key objectives
- Photic providing consistent damage in teamfights
As a result, IG’s compositions were very strong in the mid game.
Meanwhile, NIP preferred poke-based compositions. Their strategy relied on safe positioning and long-range damage.
Specifically, NIP focused on:
- Stable laning phases
- Controlled teamfights through poke damage
- Protecting the ADC as the main late-game carry
When this strategy worked, such as in Game 2, NIP looked very competitive. However, they struggled to maintain consistency across the series. when NIP executed their strategy properly, they could pose serious challenges for IG.
Key Highlights of the Match
Rookie’s outstanding performance was one of the biggest highlights of the series. His lane control, roaming ability, and playmaking in teamfights helped IG gain advantages at critical moments.
Another key factor behind IG’s victory was their superior objective control, particularly securing Dragons, Baron, and Rift Herald.
Although NIP managed to win Game 2, they struggled to maintain consistency in crucial moments, which ultimately cost them the series.
Final Thoughts
The match between Invictus Gaming and Ninjas in Pyjamas on March 1, 2026 delivered exciting teamfights and intense gameplay for League of Legends fans.
IG demonstrated their experience and composure to secure a 3–1 victory, advancing further in the LPL 2026 Playoffs.
Despite the loss, NIP still showed promising potential and could become a stronger contender if they improve their coordination and strategic consistency.
Follow the results of other matches on Tenkly: https://tenkly.com/
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