Fnatic Forges Path to VALORANT Champions 2025 Grand Final, Sets Stage for Epic Rematch

The dust has settled on an intense Lower Bracket Final at VALORANT Champions 2025, and emerging victorious from the crucible is none other than the EMEA powerhouse, Fnatic. With a commanding 3-1 series win over Pacific challengers DRX, Fnatic has not only secured their first-ever spot in a VALORANT Champions Grand Final but also orchestrated a highly anticipated rematch against the formidable and previously undefeated NRG.

This journey to the Grand Final has been anything but straightforward for Fnatic. Relegated to the lower bracket by none other than NRG themselves, this victory over DRX represents not just a strategic triumph but a testament to their resilience and adaptability under immense pressure. The stage is now set for a climactic showdown where a storied rivalry will reach its zenith.

The Gauntlet: Navigating the Lower Bracket Against DRX

The series against DRX was a fascinating display of tactical gambles, individual brilliance, and mid-series adjustments. Fnatic came prepared, but DRX proved to be a formidable opponent, forcing the EMEA titans to dig deep.

Map 1: Sunset`s Early Gambit

The series began with a surprising map pick: Sunset. Both teams have historically shied away from this map, making Fnatic`s decision to lock it in a bold, almost provocative, move. However, DRX, and particularly Song ‘HYUNMIN’ Hyun-min on Waylay, seemed utterly unfazed. DRX swiftly secured the pistol round and carved out a dominant defensive half (8-4), leaving Fnatic’s attack side looking hesitant. Despite Fnatic`s attempts to regain control in the second half, DRX maintained their aggression and closed out the map 13-8. A tactical gamble for Fnatic that, this time, didn`t quite pay off.

Map 2: Corrode`s Counterpunch and Fnatic`s Dominance

If Sunset was a slight misstep, Corrode was a masterclass in swift correction. Fnatic came out swinging, unleashing a near-flawless attack half that saw them rack up a staggering 10 consecutive rounds before DRX could even register on the scoreboard. Deep Astra smokes facilitated early mid-control, and Fnatic`s players, who might have looked quiet on Sunset, now consistently won their aim duels. Austin ‘crashies’ Roberts, in particular, delivered a stellar performance on Fade, securing critical 1v3 clutches and boasting an impressive KDA of 18/6/2.

DRX, conversely, seemed to revert to less optimal habits, investing ultimates into rounds where their economy barely justified it. Despite winning their attack pistol, the map quickly spiraled, ending in a dominant 13-3 victory for Fnatic on DRX’s own map pick. The scoreboard, in this case, tells a very clear, very painful story.

Map 3: Haven`s Tightrope Walk and Clutch Plays

Haven offered a much more fiercely contested battle. DRX managed to secure both pistol rounds and even convert a bonus, hinting at a potential snowball effect. However, Fnatic`s in-game leader, Boaster, made crucial mid-game adjustments that turned a potential deficit into a level 6-6 half. While DRX found consistent success pushing C-site, they struggled against Fnatic`s proactive mid-pushes and coordinated site entries.

The second half saw momentum swing back and forth, a true test of nerves. Even with DRX clinching another pistol, Fnatic immediately retaliated with a thrifty win. Amidst moments of indecision, it was once again crashies who stood as a steadfast anchor, his fearless plays and impeccable utility usage proving instrumental in Fnatic’s hard-fought 13-11 victory. If ever there was a map to highlight individual fortitude, Haven was it.

Map 4: Bind`s Decisive Blow and Grand Final Sealing

The series culminated on Bind, a map where DRX boasted an impressive 3-0 record at Champions – a seemingly safe bet for them. But Fnatic, having found their rhythm, took absolute control from the first half. Their composition, notably featuring the signature Tejo pick, excelled at securing A-showers control. They also showcased creative set plays for B-site, combining Tejo’s ultimate with clever Yoru teleports to disorient DRX’s defense.

Under the increasing weight of impending Champions elimination, DRX`s defense crumbled, managing only two rounds. One was a brilliant ACE from HYUNMIN, a solitary moment of individual brilliance, and the other a desperate hero play. Even a pistol round win on attack couldn`t rekindle DRX`s confidence. Fnatic, now operating with surgical precision, knew exactly how to counter DRX’s explosive Waylay entries. The map concluded decisively at 13-4, cementing Fnatic`s 3-1 series victory and their second international VCT Grand Final appearance of the year.

The Grand Final Awaits: A Rematch of Titans

With their hard-fought victory, Fnatic now advances to face VCT Americas Stage 2 runner-up NRG in the VALORANT Champions 2025 Grand Final. This is not just any final; it`s a grudge match. NRG previously defeated Fnatic 2-0 in the Upper Bracket Final, sending them on their arduous journey through the lower bracket. NRG has enjoyed a flawless Playoffs run thus far, making them a formidable, undefeated opponent.

The best-of-five (BO5) series promises to be an epic clash of titans, a narrative of redemption for Fnatic, and a true test of NRG`s unblemished record. Fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting to see which team will lift the coveted VALORANT Champions 2025 trophy. The stage is set, the players are ready, and history is waiting to be written.