The Group Stage of Valorant Champions 2024 has truly hit its stride, delivering an array of exhilarating matches. Day 5 proved particularly thrilling, as Team Heretics and DRX secured their spots in the Playoffs, leaving fans buzzing with excitement. The day’s matchups saw Heretics pulling off a stunning upset against Gen.G, while DRX showcased their prowess by sweeping Fnatic. Here’s a detailed look at the action-packed day.

Heretics Upset Gen.G to Secure Playoff Spot

In a highly anticipated match, Team Heretics faced off against Gen.G Esports, the reigning VCT Masters Shanghai champions. Despite being underdogs, Heretics demonstrated resilience and tactical brilliance to clinch a 2-1 victory.

Map 1: Abyss The series kicked off on Abyss, where Gen.G took an early lead, ending the first half with a 7-5 advantage. They extended this to 10-6, but Heretics fought back, closing the gap to 11-10. Ultimately, Gen.G secured the map with a 13-11 score, thanks to stellar performances, particularly from Kim “Meteor” Tae-o, who racked up 28 kills.

Map 2: Lotus Heretics faced a daunting 8-4 deficit by halftime but executed a remarkable comeback, winning nine of the last eleven rounds to take the map 13-11. This resilience set the stage for a thrilling decider.

Map 3: Bind Heretics carried their momentum into Bind, securing an 8-4 lead at halftime. Gen.G attempted a comeback, narrowing the gap to 11-10, but Heretics held firm, winning 13-10 to close the series. Benjy “benjyfishy” Fish led the charge with 56 kills and 17 assists, supported by standout performances from Ricardas “Boo” Lukasevicius and Mert “Wo0t” Alkan.

In the post-match conference, Heretics’ MiniBoo expressed the intensity of the match, stating, “This was probably the hardest game I’ve ever played.” Gen.G’s IGL, Munchkin, acknowledged Heretics’ strategic brilliance, especially their comeback on Lotus, attributing their loss to missed opportunities.

DRX Sweep Fnatic to Advance

The second match of the day featured DRX against Fnatic, with both teams vying for the top spot in Group A. DRX delivered a commanding performance, sweeping the series 2-0.

Map 1: Abyss – Fnatic started strong, leading 3-1, but DRX rallied, securing six consecutive rounds. Despite a late resurgence from Fnatic, DRX clinched the map 13-11, showcasing their resilience and tactical acumen.

Map 2: Lotus – DRX dominated the second map, building a 7-5 lead by halftime and continuing their dominance in the second half. They closed out the map 13-6, thanks to an outstanding performance from Yu “BuZz” Byung-chul, who notched up 47 kills, including an Ace in round 17.

DRX’s IGL, MaKo, remarked on Fnatic’s off day, expressing confidence in their strategic preparation. He acknowledged the need to further assess Fnatic’s IGL, Boaster, in future matchups, particularly in the Playoffs.

Looking Ahead

With Heretics and DRX advancing, the Group Stage intensifies as only one Playoff spot remains in each group. Fnatic will face the winner of KRÜ Esports vs. Bilibili Gaming, while Gen.G will battle the victor of Sentinels vs. FunPlus Phoenix in their respective Decider Matches.

Day 5 of Valorant Champions 2024 will be remembered for its surprises and high-level play, setting the stage for an even more exciting Playoffs. Fans eagerly await to see which teams will rise to the occasion and secure their place among the world’s best in the tournament’s next phase