The digital coliseum of VALORANT Champions 2025 vibrated with anticipation as **Fnatic**, the formidable powerhouse from the VCT EMEA region, etched its name into history. In a gripping Lower Bracket Final, Fnatic decisively defeated the Pacific titans, **DRX**, with a 3-1 scoreline, securing their first-ever berth in a VALORANT Champions Grand Final. This victory sets the stage for a monumental showdown against **NRG**, the VCT Americas Stage 2 runner-up, in what promises to be an unforgettable climax to the tournament.
The Gauntlet Run: Fnatic vs. DRX – A Battle of Wits and Wills
The series against DRX was a testament to Fnatic`s resilience and tactical depth, a journey through four intense maps that showcased both brilliance and a dash of strategic audacity.
Map 1: Sunset – An Unexpected Opening Gambit
The series kicked off on Sunset, a map both teams typically prefer to avoid. Fnatic`s decision to pick it was a bold statement, but one that initially seemed to backfire. DRX, particularly **Song `HYUNMIN` Hyun-min**, remained unphased, delivering a dominant performance on defense. Fnatic struggled with a hesitant attack side, and despite an attempt to leverage an early Operator in the second half, DRX`s aggressive pushes consistently caught them off guard. The Korean roster took the first map with a convincing **13-8** victory.
Map 2: Corrode – Fnatic`s Dominant Answer
Undeterred, Fnatic responded with an emphatic performance on Corrode. This map was nothing short of a stomp, as Fnatic unleashed a near-flawless attack half, securing a staggering 10 consecutive rounds before DRX could even register a point. Their early mid-control, supported by precise utility, turned the tides. **Austin `crashies` Roberts** delivered an exceptional performance on Fade, highlighted by impactful utility usage and crucial 1v3 clutches, culminating in an impressive 18/6/2 KDA. DRX, perhaps crumbling under the pressure, reverted to a concerning habit of over-investing ultimates in low-buy rounds. Fnatic swiftly closed out the map **13-3**, evening the series.
Map 3: Haven – The Stalwart Anchor
Haven presented a more competitive affair. Despite DRX winning both pistol rounds and converting a bonus in the first half, Fnatic, under the astute leadership of **Jake `Boaster` Howlett**, made crucial mid-game adjustments. What appeared to be a potential snowball for DRX turned into a hard-fought 6-6 half, as Fnatic countered DRX`s success on C with proactive mid-pushes. In the second half, momentum swung back and forth, with Fnatic retaliating after DRX`s second pistol win. Again, **crashies** proved to be the team`s stalwart anchor, his fearless plays and reliable utility pivotal in securing the narrow **13-11** win, bringing Fnatic within one map of the Grand Final.
Map 4: Bind – DRX Crumbles, Fnatic Soars
The series culminated on Bind, a map where DRX boasted an impressive 3-0 record at Champions. However, Fnatic mirrored their Corrode performance, taking complete control of the first half. Their composition, featuring a signature Tejo pick, excelled at A-showers control and executed creative set plays for B. DRX, seemingly buckling under the immense pressure of elimination, managed to secure only two rounds on their defense—one an ACE from HYUNMIN, the other another individual hero play. Even a pistol round win on attack couldn`t restore DRX`s confidence. Fnatic meticulously countered DRX`s explosive Waylay entries, securing a dominant **13-4** victory on Bind and punching their ticket to the Grand Final.
The Ultimate Rematch: Fnatic vs. NRG in the Grand Final
With DRX`s valiant run concluded, Fnatic now faces its greatest challenge yet: a rematch against **NRG**. This isn`t just any rematch; it`s a battle for the ultimate title, and NRG has had a flawless Playoffs run, having previously defeated Fnatic 2-0 in the Upper Bracket Final. NRG`s consistent dominance sets a high bar, but Fnatic`s grueling journey through the Lower Bracket has undoubtedly forged them into a more battle-hardened squad.
The stage is set for an epic best-of-five (BO5) series. Will Fnatic`s newfound momentum and hard-earned resilience be enough to overcome NRG`s undefeated streak? Or will NRG once again prove their supremacy and claim the VALORANT Champions 2025 title? The esports world waits with bated breath to witness who will hoist the coveted trophy and etch their legacy into the annals of VALORANT history.
