Malzahar vs Malphite TOP Matchup Guide | LaneStomp

Back to matchup selector

Champion

Opponent

RoleGenerate matchup

Malzahar

VS

Top

Malphite

Malzahar vs Malphite

Updated Jun 4, 2026

Overview

Malzahar should focus on controlling the wave to keep pressure and deny Malphite a passive lane.
This matchup is control mage versus tank teamfight engage; Malzahar must manage lane pressure to enable map presence.

Trading pattern

Push with (E) and Voidlings, then threaten trades when Malphite steps forward, using (Q) silence to punish.
Avoid trading when Malphite's passive shield is up or when (E) attack speed slow is active on you.
After level 6, use (R) suppression to lock down Malphite for picks or all-ins, but avoid forcing ultimates without follow-up.

Danger windows

Respect (R) engage after level 6; avoid overextending without vision or escape.
Be cautious when (E) attack speed slow is available, as it reduces your trade effectiveness.
Vulnerable early if Malphite punishes your Voidlings; avoid pushing blindly without jungle support.

Early game

Use (E) and Voidlings to push early waves and force Malphite under tower.
Avoid extended trades before level 6 to prevent being punished by Malphite's poke and armor stacking.
Track Malphite's shield and mana to find windows for safe poke with (Q).

Power spikes

At level 6, (R) unlocks strong lockdown; use this window for all-ins or roams but respect (R) engage threat.
After first mana/AP item, increase wave pressure and trade confidence while tracking Malphite's cooldowns.
Respect Malphite's level 6 (R) and armor spikes that reduce your damage effectiveness in extended trades.

Win conditions

Maintain constant wave pressure with (E) and Voidlings to deny Malphite safe farming and scaling.
Use (R) suppression to create picks or force Malphite out of lane for map advantage.
Transition lane control into mid-game presence by leveraging pushed waves and ultimate threat to impact objectives and fights.