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Overview

Role Plan

Danger Windows

Early Game

Power Spikes

Win Conditions

Naafiri vs Xerath MID Matchup Guide | LaneStomp

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Champion

Opponent

RoleGenerate matchup

Naafiri

VS

Mid

Xerath

Naafiri vs Xerath

Updated May 31, 2026

Overview

Naafiri is a high-mobility assassin who wants to chip Xerath with Q before committing all-ins with W and R.
Pressure Xerath early to deny his safe poke and prevent him from freely using Xerath Q and W to control space.

Trading pattern

Start trades by landing Q poke to create a health advantage and apply bleed.
Commit with W and E only when Xerath's Xerath E is on cooldown or missed to avoid his stun.
Use R to chase isolated or low-health Xerath when his defensive cooldowns are spent.

Danger windows

When Xerath's Xerath E stun is available, avoid committing with W as it can be interrupted or punished.
If Q poke misses, your all-in threat diminishes; avoid forced engages.
Be cautious when Xerath charges Xerath Q or during his ultimate Xerath R, as he can punish close approaches.

Early game

Use Q to poke and apply bleed before Xerath can land his skillshots.
Avoid engaging with W unless Xerath's Xerath E stun or other defensive tools are down.
Keep the wave in a state that allows you to threaten W engages without being predictable or blocked.

Power spikes

Naafiri's level 6 R significantly boosts chase and burst potential.
First lethality item completion increases Q poke and all-in threat.
Respect Xerath's level 6 Xerath R for long-range poke and follow-up damage.

Win conditions

Win by landing consistent Q poke to lower Xerath's health before committing all-ins.
Use R-enhanced all-ins to punish Xerath when isolated or after his crowd control is down.
Deny Xerath safe spacing and force him to play defensively, preventing him from scaling comfortably.

Tip: For Naafiri vs Xerath, read overview, trading pattern, and danger windows first for a fast Mid lane check.

Updated May 31, 2026New matchup