For years, Europe’s League of Legends community held onto the strength of its legacy. The LEC had proudly stood as the West’s most successful region, producing championship contenders and unforgettable international runs. But the 2025 Mid Season Invitational painted a very different picture, one that has forced fans and teams alike to confront a changing reality. With both G2 Esports and Movistar KOI now eliminated, the LEC has officially become the first region knocked out of the tournament, ending a run that was built on hopes but undone by execution.

G2’s journey ended in a disappointing 3 0 sweep at the hands of FlyQuest. What should have been a fierce North America versus Europe showdown turned into a clear demonstration of FLY’s mechanical superiority and strategic sharpness. The first game began with G2 holding on well during the early skirmishes. However, every time they found a slight lead, FLY found a way to turn it around. Inspired’s jungle control, especially his calm, calculated plays, made the difference. As G2’s debutant jungler SkewMond struggled to make an impact, FLY’s confidence only grew.

Game two gave fans a flicker of the old G2 spark. Quick kills and aggressive rotations suggested a possible comeback. But it was not enough. FlyQuest played with composure, reading every G2 attempt before it escalated. Busio’s Bard and Inspired’s Wukong set the tempo, punishing G2’s aggression and cutting off their vision. Baron after Baron, FlyQuest turned every objective into a game ending advantage.

The third game sealed G2’s fate. This time, FlyQuest gave them no room to breathe. With Massu’s Kai’Sa and Inspired’s Trundle dominating every lane and team fight, G2 looked completely out of sync. The match ended with FLY in full control, handing G2 a swift exit from the tournament and prompting questions about the direction of Europe’s former powerhouse.

While G2’s downfall was sobering, Movistar KOI’s story unfolded in equally painful fashion. Arriving at MSI 2025 as LEC’s first seed, MKOI came with momentum and promise. But against the underdog CTBC Flying Oyster, they were outclassed in nearly every department. Game one exposed early weaknesses as CFO gained control through clean rotations and sharp objective play. HongQ’s Azir became an unstoppable force, leading his team to a smooth first win with zero deaths.

Game two was even more punishing. Doggo’s Jhin performance was clinical, picking apart MKOI’s backline and dictating every fight. Despite a few strong moments from MKOI, especially in the early game, they were always chasing. CFO maintained vision superiority, blocked off key jungle routes, and never allowed the European side to recover.

MKOI’s third game brought some hope back to LEC fans. With cleaner execution and coordinated team fights, they managed to push back and secure their first win of the series. It was a reminder that Europe still had fight left. But it didn’t last. Game four returned to the rhythm CFO had built all series long. Their rotations were flawless, their team fights methodical, and once again, MKOI found themselves unable to keep up. Doggo and Kaiwing led the charge, systematically shutting down any attempt at resistance. The match ended with CFO firmly in control and MKOI packing their bags.

The exit of both European teams in quick succession is more than just a tournament statistic. It signals the growing gap between the LEC and rising contenders from other regions. Asia’s dominance continues, but now regions like Latin America Pacific and North America are catching up fast, no longer afraid to challenge the older powerhouses. For Europe, MSI 2025 is a reminder that history does not guarantee future success. It is a wake up call to rebuild from within, with fresh strategies, stronger discipline, and a mindset that moves forward instead of leaning on past glories.

Follow Gaming Moves on Instagram and Facebook for all the latest MSI updates, match breakdowns, and deep dives into global esports narratives.