While the first ever LAN event in Valorant history went down as a major success it left those wondering, will the next event have similar results. With the end of the tunnel seemingly no where in sight for the titans of NA.
Sentinels continued to show their dominance in the following masters rounds taking down team after team to qualify for the second LAN event, Masters Berlin. With a much different group of teams taking the stage trying to dethrone Sentinels as the best Valorant team in the world. With two completely different teams coming from NA 100 Thieves and Envy accompanying Sentinels to the stage.
While also seeing the likes of the best teams from their respective regions:
- Gambit Esports (Russia)
- Vision Strikers (South Korea)
- G2 Esports (Europe)
- Acend (Europe)
- KRU Esports (Chile)
This event took a massive turn for the Sentinels as they would catch not only their first map loss, but also for the first time they would lose a match. Losing two matches during group play giving them a lower spot in the bracket play, meaning they would match up against one of the best teams at the event in the quarter finals, Envy.
This match was not what any Sentinels fan or player would have expected. Envy came red hot out of the gates, taking map 1 into overtime where they would win after the second round of OT. In map two, much of the same seeing Envy dominate the Sentinels in glories fashion winning without the need for overtime, beating Sentinels 2-0. Sending Sentinels home without the trophy and championship for the first time.
Envy continuing their dominance at their first LAN event would go on to beat NA’s 100 Thieves 2-0 in the semi finals. Before reaching the Grand Finals versus Gambit Esports. This championship match followed the same tone of the tournament, where one team dominates the other without any resistance. Gambit Esports claimed the Masters Berlin championship trophy and the VCT points beating Envy 3-0.
While this tournament was a milestone in the chase for the World Championships in December. It was also a turning point for many teams who did not see the success they would have liked. 100 Thieves, thought to be one of the top 3 teams in NA, came away with a 3/4 place finish, while fans would see that as a “win” for the first LAN event the team attended. The organization had different thoughts. With just 3 weeks before the last chance qualifier (LCQ), 100 Thieves went through meticulous consideration and dropped their IGL (in game leader) Steel a seasoned veteran in the Esports scene, and picked up a much younger star in bOi to give them a chance at making the World Championships.
Proving that when there is a chance for a major title, teams will do anything, no matter the time frame, to make sure they have the best possible chance at winning. Even if that means dropping one of the most veteran players in the scene. With more roster changes, crazy new additions to the game, and an uncomplete story line, the LCQ and Valorant World Championships is set to bring much fanfare and excitement in the coming months.
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