Fnatic Secures VALORANT Champions 2025 Grand Final Berth in Thrilling DRX Showdown

The path to ultimate glory in VALORANT esports is rarely straightforward, and for Fnatic, it proved to be a test of resilience, strategy, and sheer will. After a nail-biting performance in the Lower Bracket Final of VALORANT Champions 2025, the VCT EMEA powerhouse has clinched its first-ever spot in a VALORANT Champions Grand Final, overcoming the formidable Pacific squad, DRX, with a decisive 3-1 victory.

This monumental win sets the stage for an eagerly anticipated rematch against the VCT Americas Stage 2 runner-up, NRG, in tomorrow’s Grand Final. Having previously fallen to NRG in the Upper Bracket, Fnatic`s journey through the Lower Bracket is a testament to their fighting spirit and tactical evolution.

The Unforeseen Challenge: Sunset`s Early Setback

The series kicked off with a curious choice on the part of Fnatic: Sunset. This map, often a ban-priority for both teams due to past underwhelming performances, was a bold statement. However, DRX, particularly the “Waylay enthusiast” Song ‘HYUNMIN’ Hyun-min, seemed entirely unfazed. HYUNMIN delivered a dominant opening, securing the pistol round and amassing 14 kills on the defensive half alone. Fnatic`s attack side on Sunset, historically hesitant, lived up to its reputation, concluding the half 4-8.

The second half saw Fnatic attempting a comeback, winning the pistol round and arming their Yoru player, Kajetan ‘kaajak’ Haremski, with an early Operator. The idea was sound: control mid while others held extremities. In practice, however, DRX’s relentless aggression stifled Fnatic’s efforts, frequently catching them off guard. The Korean roster capitalized on these openings, securing a 13-8 victory and taking the first map.

Fnatic`s Resurgence: Dominance on Corrode

If Sunset was a stumble, Corrode was Fnatic’s thunderous roar. The second map became a near-flawless display, a veritable stomp where Fnatic unleashed a stunning 10-round winning streak before DRX could even register on the scoreboard. Fnatic`s attack half was a masterclass in early mid-control, propelled by deep Astra smokes. Where aim duels had been shaky on Sunset, Fnatic players now consistently found their marks.

A standout performance came from Austin ‘crashies’ Roberts, whose Fade utility and critical 1v3 clutches on Abyss were nothing short of spectacular, culminating in an impressive kill-death-assist (KDA) of 18/6/2. DRX, conversely, reverted to a concerning habit: investing valuable ultimates into low-buy rounds under pressure. Despite winning their attack pistol, DRX ultimately succumbed to Fnatic’s onslaught, losing their map pick 13-3.

A Battle of Wills: Haven`s Close Call

Haven provided a far more competitive spectacle. DRX initially seemed poised for a dominant half, securing two pistol rounds and converting a bonus round. What appeared to be a potential attack snowball for DRX was expertly countered by Boaster’s mid-game adjustments, bringing the half to a respectable 6-6. While the Korean team found consistent success on C site, they struggled against Fnatic`s proactive mid pushes and site crunches.

The second half was a seesaw affair, with momentum constantly shifting. DRX again won the pistol, but Fnatic immediately retaliated with a thrifty win, showcasing their economic discipline. Despite moments of indecision on which site to commit, Fnatic found their anchor once more in crashies. His fearless plays and reliable utility were crucial in securing the hard-fought 13-11 victory, pushing Fnatic to a 2-1 series lead.

Sealing the Deal: Bind`s Decisive End

The series culminated on Bind, a map where DRX boasted an impressive 3-0 record at Champions. Yet, history was destined to be rewritten. Just as on Corrode, Fnatic seized complete control during the first half. Their well-drilled team composition, featuring the signature Tejo pick, excelled at taking A-showers control. Furthermore, Fnatic unveiled creative set plays for B, using Tejo’s ultimate to clear backsite, seamlessly followed by a sneaky Yoru teleport entry. It was a clinic in coordinated aggression.

Under the increasing pressure of impending elimination, DRX’s defense crumbled, managing to secure only two rounds. One was a brilliant ACE from HYUNMIN, a moment of individual heroism amidst collective struggle, and the other another solitary hero play. The psychological toll was evident; even a pistol round win on attack couldn`t restore DRX`s confidence. Fnatic, for their part, adapted flawlessly, positioning themselves to neutralize DRX`s explosive Waylay entries. With a dominant 13-4 victory on Bind, Fnatic cemented their place in the Grand Final, marking their second international VCT Grand Final appearance of the year.

The Ultimate Showdown: Fnatic vs. NRG in the Grand Final

Following this incredible Lower Bracket run, Fnatic will now face the formidable NRG in the Grand Final. The stage is set for a rematch of epic proportions, commencing tomorrow at 11 AM BST. NRG has enjoyed a flawless Playoffs run, notably defeating Fnatic 2-0 in their previous encounter in the Upper Bracket Final. This provides Fnatic with a clear motivation for redemption, but also highlights the sheer challenge ahead.

Fans worldwide can tune into this best-of-five (BO5) series via VCT’s official YouTube and Twitch channels to witness history unfold and discover which team will be crowned the VALORANT Champions 2025. The narrative is ripe: an EMEA titan fighting for a championship title against an Americas juggernaut that has already bested them. This is what esports is all about.