Pantheon vs Illaoi
Top Lane MatchupPantheon vs Illaoi TOP matchup tips: who wins, how to trade, wave control and common mistakes.
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Who Wins
- You win pre-6 through superior early game damage and mobility, with level 2 being your strongest spike when you can W-Q combo for significant damage.
- Post-6 the matchup becomes more difficult as her R makes extended trades heavily favor her, though you can still win short trades with your combo.
How to Trade
- Your optimal trading pattern is W-Q-auto-E to block her Q retaliation, then immediately disengage before she can land E or extended tentacle damage.
- Never commit to extended trades as her passive tentacles and sustain will overwhelm you over time.
Wave Control
- Push early levels to establish priority and roam with R, as you cannot match her scaling or teamfight presence in side lanes.
- Avoid slow pushing into her as she excels at clearing large waves with Q and can easily set up E pulls when minions are stacked.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Never fight in areas with multiple tentacles or when her E spirit is active, as the damage amplification will make trades heavily unfavorable.
- Don't use W aggressively if her R is available, as she can immediately turn the all-in against you with her ultimate's healing and damage.
Created on 03/14/2026
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