Paper Rex, NRG secure VALORANT Champions 2025 playoff spots

The first two tickets to the VALORANT Champions 2025 playoffs have been punched, with Paper Rex and NRG claiming top spots in their groups after hard-fought victories over GIANTX and DRX, respectively.

Both teams showed grit and adaptability, recovering from early setbacks to seal qualification in style.

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  Fast Payouts

Paper Rex hold firm against GIANTX

The Group A winners’ match began with a clash between Pacific powerhouse Paper Rex (PRX) and EMEA contender GIANTX.

The European VALORANT squad struck first on Ascent, capitalizing on sharp play from Eduard-George “ara” Hanceriuc’s Jett to edge a 13-11 win. But PRX quickly regrouped, showing why they’re perennial title threats.

On Lotus, PRX’s fast-paced setups and clutch mid-round calls overwhelmed GIANTX, leveling the series with a 13-10 victory.

The decider on Sunset was a masterclass from PRX’s stars: Ilia “something” Petrov’s Yoru dominated the pistols, while Wang “Jinggg” Jing Jie’s Raze created vital space.

The Pacific champions tightened their defensive reads, closing out a convincing 13-6 to book their place in the playoffs.

It’s only the second time PRX have advanced from groups as a top seed, but their composure after a rocky opener suggests they’re peaking at the right moment.

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  The bookies' bookie

NRG stage comeback to eliminate DRX

In Group C, NRG once again earned their reputation as comeback specialists, overturning DRX in a tense three-map series.

DRX opened strong on Haven, exploiting NRG’s defenses for a clean 13-4.

Momentum swung on Corrode, where Adam “mada” Pampuch’s clutch plays and sharp shooting pushed NRG through a back-and-forth half before they edged a 13-11 win.

The decider on Lotus looked bleak for the VCT Americas outfit after DRX stormed to a 7-0 start.

But a halftime reset allowed NRG to claw back, powered by Brock “brawk” Somerhalder’s blistering 28 kills and disciplined mid-round calls.

Another 13-11 score sealed the reverse sweep and a playoff berth.

Looking ahead

With PRX and NRG through, GIANTX and DRX drop to their respective decider matches later in the week, still fighting for a shot at Champions glory.

Meanwhile, PRX’s precision and NRG’s resilience set an early standard for the Champions 2025 playoffs, hinting at a thrilling knockout stage ahead.