Xin Zhao vs Karthus JUNGLE Matchup Guide | LaneStomp

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Champion

Opponent

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Xin Zhao

VS

Jungle

Karthus

Xin Zhao vs Karthus

Updated Jun 6, 2026

Overview

Use Xin Zhao's superior early dueling to contest river control and deny Karthus safe farming paths.
Prioritize early invades and scuttle fights to disrupt Karthus's full clear and delay his scaling.

Jungle Plan

Path to contest camps early and force Karthus off his jungle before he reaches level 6.
Fight for river control and first Scuttle only when your lanes can assist or move first.
Use counter-ganks to punish Karthus's weak early gank threat and secure objectives like dragon and Rift Herald before he scales.

Danger windows

Avoid extended fights near river when enemy mid or bot can collapse, as Karthus relies on lane assistance.
Be cautious contesting objectives if Karthus's ultimate is up and enemy lanes lack pressure to punish low-health allies.
Watch for Karthus clearing camps at low health; he is vulnerable to counter-invades during these moments.

Early game

Start opposite Karthus's first clear to secure your full clear and avoid early invade risk.
Contest first Scuttle Crab aggressively when nearby lanes have priority to limit Karthus's vision and safe pathing.
Avoid direct fights during Karthus's initial clear; instead, track his position to counter-invade when he commits to one side.

Power spikes

Level 3 unlocks your full kit, enabling strong river fights and early invades to pressure Karthus's farming.
Level 6 grants (R) for zone control, making objective fights easier to force and protect from Karthus's follow-up.
First fighter item spike enhances your dueling, allowing you to invade and deny Karthus's jungle tempo before his AP item.

Win conditions

Convert early river control and camp pressure into securing dragons and Rift Herald before Karthus hits level 6.
Use lane priority to establish deep vision and deny Karthus safe farming in his jungle.
Force fights and invade before Karthus completes key items or reaches level 6 to prevent his global teamfight impact.