VALORANT Champions 2025 in Paris has always promised high stakes, breathtaking plays, and the relentless pursuit of glory. Yet, even the most seasoned esports enthusiasts couldn`t have fully anticipated the drama that unfolded in the Upper Bracket Semifinals. From unexpected stand-in heroics to record-shattering individual performances, the journey to the Accor Arena Grand Finals is proving to be a tapestry woven with both triumph and bittersweet defeat.
Fnatic`s Unlikely Odyssey: Defying the Odds with a Stand-In
The first seismic event saw EMEA titans Fnatic clash with VCT Pacific`s formidable Paper Rex (PRX). The narrative was already steeped in adversity for Fnatic, as their star sentinel player, Emir ‘Alfajer’ Beder, was sidelined due to health complications. Stepping into these enormous shoes was Domagoj ‘Doma’ Fancev, a player who suddenly found himself thrust onto the biggest stage.
Against all logic, Fnatic, with Doma, managed to send PRX to the lower bracket with a definitive 2-1 series victory. The series began on PRX`s map pick, Bind, where Fnatic showcased immediate resilience. Despite falling behind 0-4, a stellar defense led by Kajetan ‘kaajak’ Haremski and impressive utility usage from Doma saw them take a 7-5 lead into the half. While PRX eventually clinched Bind 13-10, demonstrating their aggressive prowess, Fnatic had already laid down a marker: they were here to fight.
On Haven, Fnatic’s tactical acumen shone brightly. Led by the insightful calls of in-game leader Jake ‘Boaster’ Howlett, they dissected PRX’s aggressive compositions, building an 8-5 lead and then completely shutting down their attacks in the second half. Employing a formidable post-plant Viper strategy, Fnatic secured Haven with a dominant 13-4 scoreline.
The deciding map, Lotus, delivered a comeback that will undoubtedly be etched into VALORANT history. After securing the attack pistol, Fnatic found themselves in a dire 3-9 deficit at halftime, repeatedly denied by PRX’s Jason ‘f0rsakeN’ Susanto. What followed was nothing short of miraculous. Fnatic, perhaps anticipating PRX’s attempts to exploit Doma’s seemingly weaker C-site hold, brilliantly played retakes and systematically dismantled PRX’s executes. They chained together an astonishing 12 consecutive rounds, turning a seemingly insurmountable deficit into a triumphant 13-9 victory. Fnatic`s ability to adapt, maintain composure, and execute under immense pressure with a stand-in was a testament to their championship pedigree.
NRG vs. MIBR: A Record-Breaking Marathon of Resilience
The second Upper Bracket Semifinal was a VCT Americas derby, pitting NRG against MIBR. This series, a nail-biter that went the full three maps, ultimately saw NRG emerge victorious 2-1, but not without one of the most remarkable individual performances in VCT history.
The battle commenced on MIBR’s map pick, Abyss. Despite NRG securing the only pistol round win of the series, MIBR’s star duelist Erick ‘aspas’ Santos ignited on his signature agent, Jett, keeping the game fiercely contested. Both teams traded blows in a series of intense aim duels and strategic plays, pushing the map into overtime. In a testament to their clutch factor, NRG’s in-game leader Ethan ‘Ethan’ Arnold and rookie duelist Adam ‘mada’ Pampuch made hero plays to secure a hard-fought 16-14 victory.
Haven saw a rare mirror match-up of Viper/Omen compositions, where MIBR delivered a masterclass. They exposed NRG`s reliance on fast, set strategies, forcing Ethan into uncomfortable default plays. MIBR’s disciplined defense and map control, featuring an often self-sufficient Killjoy setup, allowed them to cruise to a 10-2 first-half lead, ultimately leveling the series with a dominant 13-4 win.
The deciding map, Corrode, was another marathon. Both teams, running solo-Waylay compositions, showcased strong attack sides. MIBR initially capitalized on their versatile pacing, securing five crucial attack rounds on the typically defense-sided map. However, a pivotal thrifty round win for NRG shifted the momentum entirely. As MIBR’s rookies seemed to falter under pressure, NRG executed their site hits with newfound conviction. Despite a valiant effort from MIBR`s IGL Andrew ‘Verno’ Maust, who delivered an impactful Sova ultimate and denied a last-minute plant to force overtime, and a stunning ACE from aspas, it wasn`t enough. NRG`s resilience prevailed, taking Corrode 16-14.
Throughout every map of the series, MIBR’s aspas was a force of nature, consistently topping the server. With an incredible kill-death-assist (KDA) ratio of 80/42/6, the veteran duelist shattered the record for the most kills ever achieved at a VCT global event. A truly phenomenal individual showing, even in defeat.
The Path Forward: Upper Bracket Finals and Lower Bracket Survival
With these electrifying victories, Fnatic and NRG have earned their coveted spots in the Upper Bracket Final of VALORANT Champions 2025, set to take place at Paris’ Accor Arena on October 3rd. Their clash promises a battle of tactical prowess and individual brilliance, with a direct ticket to the Grand Finals on the line.
For Paper Rex and MIBR, the journey continues in the unforgiving Lower Bracket. Tomorrow, the stakes could not be higher as they fight for survival. Paper Rex will face off against EMEA`s Team Heretics, while MIBR will test their mettle against Pacific`s formidable DRX. These elimination matches are not just about winning; they`re about proving resilience, adapting under pressure, and keeping the dream of VALORANT Champions alive. The world watches to see who will overcome adversity and who will make their final bow in Paris.
VALORANT Champions 2025 has already delivered unforgettable moments, proving that in esports, much like any high-level competition, the script is always open to improvisation, and true champions are forged in the crucible of unexpected challenges.
