Phoenix Suns
FUT Esports Triumphs Over Fnatic, Advances in EMEA Kickoff
- FUT Esports defeats Fnatic 2-0, advancing to the VCT EMEA Kickoff lower bracket semifinal.
- Xeus delivers an outstanding performance with a Sheriff ace and 40 kills across the series.
- Fnatic, one of the top contenders since 2024, is eliminated early and loses their shot at Masters Bangkok.
FUT Esports and Fnatic’s much awaited lower bracket matchup did not let anyone down. In a match when both teams were battling for their lives, FUT Esports won 2-0, moving on to the lower bracket semifinals and preserving their hopes of qualifying for Masters Bangkok. While Fnatic’s difficulties resulted in a startling early elimination from the tournament, the match saw outstanding performances from FUT, especially their star player Xeus. Stay up to date on VALORANT rumors thanks to our expert esports tips!
Key Moments and Highlights
HUGE round for @FUTesportsgg pic.twitter.com/3p2s7vpedu
— VALORANT Esports EMEA (@valesports_emea) January 31, 2025
The series opened on Abyss, where both teams opted for Yoru and Astra compositions. The main distinction was that FUT chose to add Vyse, whereas Fnatic kept a lineup of two duelists. FUT’s aggressive style was established early on in the contest as Xeus delivered a breathtaking Sheriff ace in the pistol round.
By exposing FUT’s B-site defense, Fnatic gained early momentum, and Chronicle produced an incredible 1v3 post-plant clutch. FUT lost 7-5 in the half, but they came back with a pistol victory to even the score at 7-7. FUT’s mid-push tactic was too strong to derail Fnatic’s quest to reach ten rounds. FUT won 13-10 with another outstanding round from Xeus, who finished the map with 25 kills.
The action switched to Fracture for the second map. FUT used a Neon-centric combination with Cypher, KAY/O, Breach, and Astra. Despite a great performance by Fnatic’s Alfajer on Chamber and crashies in vital places, FUT controlled the early rounds. QRaxs started with a four kill pistol round, but FUT maintained control by converting their bonus round to end Fnatic’s aspirations.
Fnatic struggled to regain footing, falling behind 6-6 at the half. FUT’s defense was impenetrable, and the team cruised to a 13-6 win, eliminating Fnatic from the tournament. xeus emerged as the series hero, racking up 40 kills and 248 ACS, despite minimal preparation for his Neon role on Fracture.
FUT’s Momentum and Fnatic’s Surprising Exit
THEY DID IT:@FUTesportsgg eliminate @FNATIC! #VCTEMEA pic.twitter.com/8pQchPQPRZ
— VALORANT Esports EMEA (@valesports_emea) January 31, 2025
FUT Esports showed resilience and versatility throughout the series. xeus’ explosive moves were critical to securing the victory, while AtaKaptan’s strong Astra performance offered strategic stability. The team’s ability to stall Fnatic’s advances and retain composure under duress distinguishes them as viable candidates for the lower bracket finals.
This result is a dismal finish to Fnatic’s Kickoff run and destroys their chances of qualifying for Masters Bangkok. Despite excellent individual efforts from players such as Chronicle and Alfajer, the squad missed vital opportunities and were unable to counter FUT’s aggressive tactics.
FUT Esports now awaits the winner of the BBL Esports and Team Liquid matchup in the lower bracket semifinal. With xeus in top form and the team firing on all cylinders, FUT aims to keep its championship dreams alive. As for Fnatic, the team will need to regroup and reassess its strategies for future competitions. Don’t forget to bet on your favorite teams at BetUS Sportsbook & Casino, as we have a plethora of VALORANT odds for you to enjoy!
