Malzahar vs Xerath MID Matchup Guide | LaneStomp

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Malzahar

VS

Mid

Xerath

Malzahar vs Xerath

Updated May 31, 2026

Overview

Malzahar is a control mage who wants to keep midlane pushed permanently to deny Xerath safe scaling and roaming opportunities.
Xerath's high poke and long-range artillery pressure means Malzahar must manage wave control carefully to avoid being zoned out early.

Trading pattern

Push with E and Voidlings, then threaten trades when Xerath steps forward, using Q silence to interrupt his poke.
Punish Xerath when he misses Xerath E stun by stepping forward to apply pressure and force him back.
Avoid trading when Xerath is charging Xerath Q or has Xerath E available to prevent getting stunned or heavily poked.

Danger windows

Malzahar is most vulnerable when Xerath lands Xerath E stun combined with poke, especially before level 6.
Be cautious during Xerath's ultimate channel as it extends his poke and zone control.
Avoid engaging when Xerath's key defensive cooldowns (Xerath E and Xerath R) are available and Xerath is positioned aggressively.

Early game

Use E and W to quickly push the wave and force Xerath to farm under tower, limiting his poke effectiveness.
Avoid extended trades before level 6 since Xerath's poke and stun can punish Malzahar's immobility.
Maintain passive Void Shift to absorb poke and reduce the impact of Xerath's Q and W harassment.

Power spikes

Malzahar's major spikes are level 6 R and first completed mana/AP item, enabling strong lockdown and damage.
Xerath's major spikes are level 6 Xerath R and first completed mana/AP item, increasing his poke and map pressure.
Respect Xerath's power spikes by avoiding all-ins and focusing on wave control until Malzahar's own spikes arrive.

Win conditions

Win by consistently pushing the wave with E and Voidlings to deny Xerath safe farming and roam opportunities.
Use level 6 R to lock down Xerath after forcing his defensive cooldowns, enabling kills or summoner usage.
Transition lane pressure into map presence by roaming or assisting side lanes once midlane is pushed and Xerath is pressured.