Xerath vs Cassiopeia MID Matchup Guide | LaneStomp

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Champion

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Xerath

VS

Mid

Cassiopeia

Xerath vs Cassiopeia

Updated Jun 1, 2026

Overview

Xerath is a long-range artillery mage who must pressure Cassiopeia early to prevent her from setting up extended E trades.
Prioritize lane pressure to deny Cassiopeia safe mid-range positioning and force her into awkward fights.

Trading pattern

Start trades with W to slow Cassiopeia, then follow up with Q to land poke safely.
Hold E defensively to punish Cassiopeia if she tries to engage or follow up after her Q or W miss.
Avoid extended trades where Cassiopeia can stack E damage; focus on short, spaced poke instead.

Danger windows

Be cautious when Cassiopeia has Cassiopeia W available to ground your mobility and force close trades.
Avoid facing Cassiopeia during her R window to prevent being stunned or slowed.
Missing E or charging Q leaves you vulnerable to Cassiopeia's follow-up damage and positioning pressure.

Early game

Use Q and W to poke Cassiopeia before she can apply poison and start sustained trades.
Avoid committing E offensively unless sure to hit, as missing it forces you to play back.
Respect Cassiopeia's W grounding and avoid dashing into it to prevent being locked down.

Power spikes

Xerath's major spikes are level 6 R and first completed mana/AP item.
Cassiopeia's major spikes are level 6 R and first mana/AP item, increasing her sustained damage threat.
Respect Cassiopeia's level 6 R as it punishes facing her during all-ins.

Win conditions

Use Q and W to consistently poke and zone Cassiopeia, denying her the chance to apply poison safely.
After level 6, leverage R to pressure Cassiopeia from long range and force her to play defensively.
Punish Cassiopeia's missed Q or W by stepping forward with poke or wave pressure to control the lane.