Kha Y Tran EDward Gaming and Ninjas in Pyjamas delivered a dramatic showdown in the LPL 2026 Split 1 group stage. From the start, the best-of-three series kept fans on edge. In particular, this match stood out as one of the most exciting games of Week 2, Day 2.
EDG still searched for their first win of the split. Meanwhile, NiP wanted to prove their strength after reshaping their roster.
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Pre-Match Context
LPL 2026 Split 1 uses the Fearless Draft system. As a result, each champion can appear only once per series. Therefore, teams must show deeper champion pools and faster adaptation.
At first, EDG looked more comfortable in the draft. However, from Game 2 onward, NiP adjusted much better. In contrast, they reacted quickly to EDG’s priorities and used the meta at the right moments. Consequently, NiP regained momentum after losing Game 1 and then won two games in a row.
Most importantly, in Game 3, the ban and pick phase decided everything. In this case, NiP locked in champions that dominated teamfights, while EDG had to settle for lower-priority picks.
Match Breakdown
Game 1 – EDG Take Early Control
- EDward Gaming won 16–7 in just over 29 minutes.
- EDG dominated the early map, securing more major objectives: 10 towers, Dragons, and Baron.
- Their coordination in teamfights looked sharp and disciplined.
Game 1 ended with a clear advantage for EDG, setting the tone early in the series.
Game 2 – NiP Strike Back
- NiP responded strongly, evening the score at 1–1 with a 23–4 stomp.
- They played extremely decisively in the mid game, controlling Dragons and stabilizing all lanes.
- NiP’s picks and rotations enabled effective picks and forced fights that slowly broke EDG’s structure.
Momentum completely shifted in NiP’s favor.
Game 3 – NiP Close Out the Series
- In the deciding game, NiP maintained their teamfighting edge and tempo control, winning 12–5.
- Objective control and map pressure were firmly in NiP’s hands.
- EDG tried to fight back but couldn’t regain control of the game state.
- NiP showed confidence and discipline in every major teamfight.
NiP sealed the series with a composed and clinical performance.
Key Highlights
- Firstly, NiP showed great flexibility, especially in Games 2 and 3. In other words, they shifted into a more aggressive, teamfight-focused style.
- Secondly, EDG lost their rhythm after Game 1. As a result, they could not recover despite solid individual play.
- Finally, the score NiP 2–1 EDG leaves EDG in a difficult spot in the group standings.
Overall Verdict
In conclusion, NiP fully deserved the 2–1 victory. Overall, they adapted faster, drafted smarter, and executed better in high-pressure moments. Therefore, this match proves that NiP excel at in-game adjustments and late-game decisions. Going forward, EDG now need more consistency and deeper strategy to compete at the top of LPL 2026.
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Hastag
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Quynh Bui 
