Lina vs Phantom Lancer

How this matchup plays

Trying to burst down Phantom Lancer with a full spell combo feels like the right play, but it's a trap. Lina's entire kit is based on finding and deleting one important hero with Light Strike Array and Laguna Blade. Phantom Lancer is designed to counter exactly that. His illusions from Spirit Lance and Doppelganger soak up her nukes, and more importantly, they bait her ultimate. Even if Lina manages to target the real hero, he can often dodge the incoming stun or damage with a well-timed Doppelganger, leaving her with nothing as he closes the gap.

The game starts with Lina having some control, able to harass him in lane. But once Phantom Lancer gets his key items, the dynamic flips. He's no longer afraid of her burst and can actively hunt her down. Lina's only real hope is to get a massive farm advantage and buy items that provide some area control, or to stick with teammates who can clear his illusions for her. Otherwise, she spends every teamfight hitting copies until the real Phantom Lancer and his army run her over once her spells are on cooldown.