Fnatic’s Resurgent Run: A Path Forged to the VALORANT Champions 2025 Grand Final

Image credit: Colin Young-Wolff/Riot Games

The VALORANT Champions 2025 tournament has reached its electrifying climax, and at the heart of the drama stands Fnatic, an EMEA powerhouse that has clawed its way into its first-ever Champions Grand Final. Their path was anything but easy, culminating in a decisive 3-1 victory over the formidable Pacific team, DRX, in today’s Lower Bracket Final. This monumental win sets the stage for a highly anticipated clash against the VCT Americas Stage 2 runner-up, NRG, a rematch that promises to be nothing short of legendary.

Fnatic`s journey through the lower bracket has been a testament to their resilience and strategic depth. Facing elimination, they demonstrated the championship pedigree their fans have long admired. Their victory over DRX wasn`t just a win; it was a statement – a clear declaration that Fnatic is here not just to compete, but to claim the ultimate title in VALORANT esports.

DRX Unfazed by Fnatic`s Sunset Gambit

The series kicked off with a surprising map pick: Sunset. Both Fnatic and DRX have historically struggled on this map, often opting to ban it entirely. Fnatic`s decision to lock it in as their first pick raised eyebrows, suggesting either a newfound confidence or a calculated gamble designed to disrupt DRX`s comfort zone.

However, DRX, and particularly Song `HYUNMIN` Hyun-min on Waylay, appeared entirely unfazed. HYUNMIN delivered a dominant performance, securing the pistol round and racking up 14 kills on the defensive half alone. Fnatic, true to some of their past habits, had a hesitant attack side, finishing 4-8. Despite winning the second-half pistol, Fnatic`s attempt to use an early Operator for Kajetan `kaajak` Haremski`s Yoru was largely neutralized by DRX`s aggressive site pushes. The Korean roster ultimately secured the first map with a **13-8** victory, leaving Fnatic with an uphill battle.

Fnatic`s Corrode Crush: A Near-Flawless Attack

Map two, Corrode, was a complete reversal of fortunes, a veritable stomp that showcased Fnatic`s ability to adapt and dominate. The EMEA squad went on an incredible 10-round winning streak before DRX could even register a point. Fnatic`s attack half was a clinic in mid-control, leveraging deep Astra smokes to perfection. Where individual aim duels might have faltered on Sunset, Fnatic`s players now won consistently and decisively.

The star of this map was undeniably Austin `crashies` Roberts. His Fade utility was impactful, leading to crucial 1v3 clutches and an impressive Kill-Death-Assist (KDA) ratio of 18/6/2. DRX, under increasing pressure, unfortunately reverted to a less-than-ideal habit of committing ultimates during low-buy rounds. Despite winning their attack pistol, DRX succumbed to a crushing **13-3** defeat on their own map pick, illustrating Fnatic`s devastating counter-punch.

Haven`s Tug-of-War: Fnatic`s Steadfast Resolve

Haven provided a more balanced and intense contest, a true test of nerve for both teams. DRX started strong, securing both pistol rounds and converting a bonus round in the first half. What initially looked like a potential snowball for DRX on attack was expertly contained by Fnatic, largely due to Boaster’s crucial mid-game adjustments. Despite DRX finding repeated success on C site, Fnatic’s proactive mid pushes and site crunches balanced the scales, ending the half at a tense 6-6.

The second half was a momentum seesaw. DRX again claimed the pistol, only for Fnatic to immediately retaliate with a thrifty win. At times, Fnatic appeared indecisive, wavering on site execution. Yet, once again, crashies emerged as the team`s unwavering anchor. His fearless plays and consistent utility delivery were instrumental in securing a hard-fought **13-11** victory, putting Fnatic within one map of the Grand Final.

DRX Crumbles on Bind: Fnatic Seals the Deal

The series culminated on Bind, a map where DRX boasted an impressive 3-0 record at Champions prior to this match. However, the narrative of dominance quickly unraveled. Fnatic took comprehensive control in the first half, demonstrating superior strategy and execution.

Their team composition, featuring the signature Tejo pick, excelled at securing A-showers control. Fnatic also showcased creative set plays for B, utilizing Tejo’s ultimate to clear backsite, followed by a stealthy Yoru teleport entry. Under the mounting pressure of Champions elimination, DRX`s defense faltered dramatically, winning only two rounds – one an ACE from HYUNMIN, the other another individual hero play. These isolated moments of brilliance, however, were not enough.

DRX`s confidence was visibly shaken, even after winning the attack pistol. Fnatic, conversely, had DRX`s explosive Waylay entries fully scouted and knew precisely how to counter-position. With a commanding **13-4** victory on Bind, Fnatic not only secured the series 3-1 but also punched their ticket to their second international VCT Grand Final appearance of the year.

The VALORANT Champions 2025 Grand Final: A Rematch for the Ages

Image credit: Colin Young-Wolff/Riot Games

Following their hard-fought victory, Fnatic will now face the formidable Americas team, NRG, in the VALORANT Champions 2025 Grand Final. The match is scheduled for tomorrow, kicking off at 11 AM BST.

NRG has enjoyed a flawless Playoffs run thus far, having previously defeated Fnatic 2-0 in the Upper Bracket Final. This sets the stage for a compelling narrative: can Fnatic avenge their previous loss and defy NRG`s perfect streak, or will NRG solidify their dominance and claim the ultimate championship?

Fans across the globe can tune into this best-of-five (BO5) series via VCT’s official YouTube and Twitch channels to witness history unfold. Will Fnatic complete their lower bracket fairytale, or will NRG crown their impeccable run with the Champions trophy? The esports world waits with bated breath.