Xerath vs Katarina MID Matchup Guide | LaneStomp

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Xerath

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Mid

Katarina

Xerath vs Katarina

Updated Jun 1, 2026

Overview

Xerath is a long-range artillery mage who must use Q and W to pressure and deny Katarina's early attempts to set up daggers.
Maintain high lane pressure to prevent Katarina from safely roaming or finding resets.
Prioritize positioning to avoid Katarina's burst and use E defensively to peel off her engage.

Trading pattern

Poke with Q and W to control space and slow Katarina, making it harder for her to approach.
Respect Katarina E cooldown; punish when it is down by landing E stun or extended poke.
Avoid committing when charging Q or after missing E, as Katarina can exploit your immobility.

Danger windows

Katarina is most dangerous when her daggers are positioned near you and her E is available for engage.
Avoid close fights during Katarina R channel; use E to interrupt or disengage if possible.
Be cautious after missing E or while charging Q, as you are vulnerable to Katarina's all-in.

Early game

Use Q and W to poke Katarina before she reaches level 3 and unlocks her dagger combo.
Hold E to punish Katarina if she tries to engage without dagger setup or after she wastes mobility.
Keep wave control to limit Katarina's roam opportunities and force her into risky trades.

Power spikes

Xerath's major spikes are level 6 with R and first completed mana/AP item, increasing poke and map pressure.
Katarina's major spikes are level 3 dagger combo and level 6 R, which require respect and careful spacing.
Respect Katarina's burst potential post level 6, especially if she has resets available.

Win conditions

Win by consistently landing Q and W poke to deny Katarina safe dagger setups and force her to play reactively.
Use E defensively to interrupt Katarina's engage and survive her burst attempts.
Post level 6, leverage R for long-range follow-up poke and pressure to control the lane and limit her resets.