The echoes of battle have faded from the VALORANT Champions 2025 arena, leaving one certainty: Fnatic, the formidable VCT EMEA powerhouse, has secured its first-ever berth in the Grand Final. After a grueling Lower Bracket Final against the determined Pacific squad DRX, Fnatic emerged victorious with a commanding 3-1 series win, setting the stage for an epic showdown against NRG. This isn`t just any final; it`s a rematch, a narrative of redemption, and the culmination of a year of intense competition.
The Gauntlet Run: Overcoming DRX
Fnatic’s path to the Grand Final was anything but straightforward, especially in their clash with DRX. The series kicked off with a tactical surprise on Sunset, a map neither team typically favors. Fnatic`s unexpected pick, however, initially played into DRX`s hands. DRX`s Song `HYUNMIN` Hyun-min, a “Waylay enthusiast,” put on a clinic, driving his team to a 13-8 victory. Fnatic`s attack felt hesitant, almost as if they were still warming up to their own audacious map choice.
But champions adapt. On Corrode, Fnatic unleashed a near-flawless attack, securing a stunning 10-round winning streak before DRX could even register a point. This map was a masterclass in aggressive mid-control and superior aim duels. Austin ‘crashies’ Roberts, Fnatic`s initiator expert, was a force of nature on Fade, delivering impactful utility and securing crucial 1v3 clutches. DRX, under immense pressure, seemed to falter, reverting to the risky habit of costly ultimate investments. The result was a dominant 13-3 victory for Fnatic, a stark reversal of fortunes.
The momentum carried into Haven, where the match became a more tightly contested affair. Despite DRX securing both pistol rounds and converting a bonus, Fnatic`s IGL, Jake `Boaster` Howlett, made astute mid-game adjustments, bringing the score to a 6-6 half. While DRX found repeated success on the C site, they struggled against Fnatic`s proactive mid-pushes. Once again, crashies stood as a “stalwart anchor,” his fearless plays and reliable utility pivotal in Fnatic`s hard-fought 13-11 win. The team, at times, showed moments of indecision, but individual brilliance shone through.
The series concluded on Bind, a map where DRX boasted an impressive 3-0 record at Champions. Yet, Fnatic, much like on Corrode, seized full control. Their composition, featuring the signature Tejo pick, perfectly dismantled DRX’s defenses. Creative set plays, including Tejo`s ultimate to clear backsite followed by a sneaky Yoru teleport, highlighted Fnatic`s strategic depth. DRX, perhaps feeling the weight of elimination, crumbled on defense, managing only two rounds — one a heroic ACE from HYUNMIN, the other a lone act of defiance. Fnatic closed out Bind 13-4, stamping their ticket to the Grand Final.
The Rematch: Fnatic vs. NRG
With the dust settled, Fnatic now faces NRG, the VCT Americas Stage 2 runner-up, in the VALORANT Champions 2025 Grand Final. This isn`t just a final match; it`s a narrative steeped in history and a chance for redemption. NRG has enjoyed a flawless Playoffs run, even defeating Fnatic 2-0 in the Upper Bracket Final earlier in the tournament. They have established themselves as a consistent threat, presenting a formidable challenge.
Tomorrow`s Grand Final, a best-of-five series, promises a strategic chess match and a display of individual brilliance. Fnatic has proven their resilience and ability to adapt under pressure, while NRG has demonstrated consistent dominance. Will Fnatic exact their revenge and hoist the coveted VALORANT Champions trophy for the first time? Or will NRG continue their flawless streak and cement their legacy? The stakes couldn`t be higher.
The stage is set. The eyes of the VALORANT world will be fixed on this momentous clash, a true test of skill, strategy, and mental fortitude. Don`t miss the culmination of VALORANT Champions 2025.
