NRG Takes First Win in 2023 VCT Season Opener
The official 2023 VCT season started today in São Paulo, Brazil with an exciting matchup between NRG and KOI. Both teams boast top VALORANT players who have previously won Masters stages.
All eyes were on NRG, as three former OpTic players joined the North American roster. FNS, Victor, and crashies teamed up with s0m and former EMEA player ardiis to form the new five-man squad.
Despite a rough start, NRG managed to secure a 2-0 victory over KOI.
NRG chose Icebox as their map pick, opting for a composition without a duelist and Chamber. This strategic decision reflects the shifting meta where the French agent is rarely seen in play.
Although NRG started on defense, they maintained an aggressive playstyle, often engaging in close fights with KOI. However, their aggressive approach didn’t go as planned.
KOI had Jett playing a fragging role, and their player Wolfen made an impressive international LAN debut. Sheydos and starxo, former champions, returned to the international stage after a gap since 2021.
After four consecutive rounds of KOI dominating NRG, the North American team finally secured their first round win. S0m played a pivotal role, utilizing his skills and utility to make important plays.
The turning point of the match came in round 10, where NRG executed a flawless retake that surprised both the audience and the casters.
Once NRG found their rhythm on the attack, they managed to clinch the victory on Icebox with a close score of 13-11.
On Haven, both teams adopted similar compositions, giving ardiis a chance to showcase his expertise. Despite a slow start, ardiis performed exceptionally well on Jett, relieving the pressure of being a replacement for the former Chamber master yay.
NRG secured a 13-9 victory on Haven, sealing their spot in the next round of the LOCK//IN single-elimination bracket.
KOI’s journey in the tournament ends here, but they will have another chance to compete in the VCT season.
NRG will now face the winner of DetonatioN FM vs. Giants in their next match.
VCT, VALORANT, esports, NRG, KOI, Icebox, Haven, LOCK//IN