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Overview

Role Plan

Danger Windows

Early Game

Power Spikes

Win Conditions

Xerath vs Sylas MID Matchup Guide | LaneStomp

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Champion

Opponent

RoleGenerate matchup

Xerath

VS

Mid

Sylas

Xerath vs Sylas

Updated Jun 1, 2026

Overview

Xerath is a long-range artillery mage who must use Q and W to pressure Sylas and deny his melee engage windows.
Maintain lane pressure to prevent Sylas from safely using Sylas E to all-in or sustain with Sylas W.

Trading pattern

Poke with Q and W, then hold E defensively to punish Sylas if he tries to engage with Sylas E.
Punish Sylas when Sylas E is on cooldown by stepping forward for damage.
Avoid charging Q when Sylas is ready to engage, as missing E leaves you vulnerable to all-in.

Danger windows

Be most cautious when Sylas's Sylas E is up and ready to engage with knockup/stun.
Avoid extended trades if Sylas has Sylas W heal available, as he can sustain through poke.
Position carefully post-level 6 to avoid lethal all-ins with Sylas R stolen ultimates.

Early game

Use Q and W to poke Sylas early and force him to hesitate before engaging with Sylas E.
Respect Sylas E knockup; avoid overextending without E available for self-peel.
Avoid missing E as it is key for survival against Sylas's melee trades.

Power spikes

Xerath's major spikes: level 6 R and first completed mana/AP item.
Sylas's major spikes: level 3 Q-W-E skirmish combo and level 6 Sylas R if valuable ultimates are available.

Win conditions

Use Q and W poke to keep Sylas at bay and prevent him from safely engaging with Sylas E.
Capitalize on Sylas missing Sylas E to land E stun and burst trades.
After level 6, use R to extend poke and pressure Sylas, denying his ability to safely farm or all-in.

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

Updated Jun 1, 2026New matchup