LEC Spring 2026: Natus Vincere vs Team Vitality - 0:2 How Crucial Smites Turned The Game

The final match of the day featured Natus Vincere against Team Vitality. NAVI approached this series with a 2-0 record in the group stage, while Team Vitality stood at 1-1. Let's review how the match unfolded and which team managed to pull ahead.

Game 1 Picks:

• Natus Vincere: Rumble, Jarvan IV, Azir, Corki, Nami
• Team Vitality: Gnar, Xin Zhao, Aurora, Ashe, Seraphine

Game 2 Picks:

• Natus Vincere: Sion, Zaahen, Victor, Yunara, Lulu
• Team Vitality: Gwen, Wukong, Aurelion Sol, Ezreal, Neeko

On the first map, Natus Vincere initiated the game with a significant number of uncharacteristic errors. Poorly executed skirmishes and questionable decisions regarding whether to commit to fights or retreat proved costly. This sequence of actions allowed Team Vitality to build a substantial early lead. Although NAVI attempted to establish cross-map plays and focus on trading structures, Team Vitality maintained overwhelming control over the map, bolstered by exceptional individual performances from every member of the roster.

The second map featured a notable comeback from Team Vitality. NAVI confidently secured the early game, demonstrating strong objective control and efficient map rotations. At a certain point, they appeared poised to secure the victory. However, the resilience and precise Smite execution from Vitality's jungler consistently denied NAVI the Dragon Soul, which was crucial for cementing their lead. Solid late-game macro and an excellent understanding of how to play from a deficit allowed Team Vitality to close out the series with a 2:0 score.

Following this victory, Team Vitality advanced to the top of the regular season standings with a 2-1 record. NAVI also remain in the upper half of the table with an identical 2-1 series record.