VALORANT Champions Playoffs Day 1: LOUD are back!
The highly anticipated VALORANT Champions 2023 playoffs have ignited with an explosive first day. As teams clashed in a series of electrifying matches, fans were treated to a showcase of unparalleled skill, intense competition, and game-changing moments. From clutch plays that turned the tide of battle to unexpected upsets that reshaped tournament dynamics, the journey through the playoffs kicked off with a bang. In this recap article, we delve into the exhilarating highlights and pivotal events that unfolded on the inaugural day of the VALORANT Champions 2023 playoffs, setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable esports spectacle.
Upper Bracket Quarterfinals:
Game 1: Fnatic vs LOUD
Showing up with a form reminiscent of Champions 2022, it was LOUD who took a 2-0 win against Fnatic.
LOUD ban Fracture
FNC ban Pearl
LOUD pick Ascent
FNC pick Lotus
LOUD ban Bind
FNC ban Haven
Split remains
Map 1: Ascent
LOUD had an explosive start on Ascent. They took the first 4 rounds right off the bat. But Fnatic were not going to give up so easily. They pulled back into the lead by winning 5 rounds in a row. The first half ended 6-6, as LOUD managed to equalize.
LOUD again had a solid start in the second half, taking the first 2 rounds. But Fnatic managed to take back the lead by winning 3 rounds at 9-6. But LOUD found their bearings, and won 4 rounds in a row to get onto Map Point. Fnatic could only pull back 2 more rounds before LOUD closed out the map at 13-11.
Map 2: Lotus
Lotus was a step up from Ascent. LOUD had an explosive start in the first half, as they won 6 rounds right from the start. They got themselves a comfortable lead, as Fnatic closed out the hafl at 4-8.
Fnatic had won their first pistol round in the series, as the second half started. They managed to win 1 more round, as LOUD had another explosive run. They won 5 rounds in a row to close out the map at 13-6.
LOUD have advanced into the Upper Bracket Semi Finals of VALORANT Champions 2023. Whereas Fnatic have been relegated to the Lower Bracket.
Game 2: Paper Rex vs FUT Esports
Paper Rex had a dominant win against FUT, as they had a 2-0 sweep in the series.
FUT ban Fracture
PRX ban Haven
FUT pick Ascent
PRX pick Pearl
FUT ban Bind
PRX ban Lotus
Split remains
Map 1: Ascent
FUT had a strong start on Ascent. Although it was PRX who won the pistol round, FUT answered back by winning the next 2. PRX also managed to take 2 more rounds. But then FUT managed to find their groove, and pulled off a 6 round win streak. PRX finally put the half to rest at 4-8.
But PRX were a different beast in the second half. Only allowing FUT to win 2 rounds, PRX managed pull the map around. They had two separate 4-round win streaks to get themselves to Map Point. They finally closed out the map at 13-10.
Map 2: Pearl
PRX had an explosive start on Pearl. They showed off an Attacking masterclass, as they pulled off a 10 round win streak right off the bat. FUT could only hold on to 1 round, as PRX ended the half 11-1.
PRX again won the pistol round in the second half. However, FUT did try to fight back. They managed to claw back 3 more rounds. But PRX finally won out the map in quite the dominating fashion at 13-4.
Paper Rex have moved onto the Upper Bracket Semifinals of VALORANT Champions 2023. Meanwhile, FUT Esports have been relegated to the Lower Bracket, where they will face Fnatic.
Image Source: Valorant EsportsEnd of Day 1:
The first day of VALORANT Champions 2023 playoffs concluded with a thrilling showcase of skill and determination. LOUD's victory over Fnatic and Paper Rex's commanding win against FUT Esports set the stage for intense battles ahead. The explosive plays, unexpected turns, and team dedication have fueled excitement among global esports fans. As the playoffs progress, anticipation grows for more thrilling matches and defining moments in the pursuit of VALORANT supremacy.