Lich vs Pugna

How this matchup plays

Casting spells near a Nether Ward is dangerous, and Lich relies on his abilities to be effective. Every Frost Blast or Frost Shield becomes a liability, as the ward zaps him for spending his mana. This pressure makes laning difficult and can force Lich into passive positions. On the other hand, Pugna's Decrepify dramatically increases the magic damage a target takes. This makes any hero Pugna tries to save, or even himself, an ideal target for Chain Frost. A well-timed ultimate from Lich can completely reverse the situation, turning Pugna's defensive tool into a death sentence.

The matchup often comes down to a tense standoff of key abilities. Pugna tries to use his Nether Ward to control the space, daring Lich to cast anything. He wants to drain mana and health, forcing Lich back before a fight even begins. Lich, in response, has to play with patience, waiting for someone to get Decrepified. The game is about positioning and baiting out the wrong spell. A misplaced ward can be ignored or destroyed, while a poorly timed Decrepify can single-handedly lose Pugna's team the teamfight.