Orianna vs Xerath MID Matchup Guide | LaneStomp

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Orianna

VS

Mid

Xerath

Orianna vs Xerath

Updated May 31, 2026

Overview

Orianna is a control mage with medium lane pressure who must manage ball position to control trades and defend against Xerath's poke.
Prioritize denying Xerath's long-range poke by maintaining lane control and avoiding giving him safe space to charge Xerath Q.

Trading pattern

Use ball placement to zone and poke, then shield or speed yourself with E and W to survive return poke.
Punish Xerath when he misses Xerath E or while Xerath is charging Xerath Q by stepping forward with Q trades.
Avoid reckless ability use that leaves your ball poorly positioned and opens you to Xerath's poke and stun.

Danger windows

Be cautious when Xerath's Xerath E stun is available; it is his main self-peel and setup for poke.
Avoid extended trades while Xerath is charging Xerath Q or has Xerath R ready for follow-up poke.
You are vulnerable before you have enough mana and AP, so play safe early and avoid all-ins.

Early game

Use early waves to position your ball safely and respond to Xerath's poke without overextending.
Avoid extended trades before your Q cooldown resets to prevent being punished by Xerath's poke.
Respect Xerath's early high poke pressure and use E shield to mitigate damage when trading back.

Power spikes

Level 6 R is your major spike to threaten all-ins or teamfights with displacement and control.
Your first completed mage item increases your damage and shield strength, improving trading potential.
Respect Xerath's level 6 Xerath R and first completed mana/AP item as his key damage spikes.

Win conditions

Control the lane with precise ball placement to limit Xerath's poke angles and create safe trading windows.
Use your shield and speed from E and W to survive Xerath's poke and punish cooldowns like missed Xerath E.
Reach level 6 and item spikes to leverage your R for impactful teamfights and lane dominance.