FunPlus Phoenix Dominates KRÜ Esports to Secure Playoffs Spot
In the final day of the VALORANT Champions 2022 group stage, FunPlus Phoenix and KRÜ Esports clashed in a crucial match for a spot in the playoffs.
FPX started strong on Icebox, KRÜ’s chosen map. Ardiis showcased his skills on Chamber, shutting down KRÜ’s offense in the initial rounds. However, KRÜ fought back, with delz1k leading the charge to narrow FPX’s lead to 7-5 before halftime.
KRÜ carried their momentum into the second half, with Mazino making an impressive triple kill and retake in the pistol round. However, FPX capitalized on their utility usage, catching KRÜ off guard and preventing their retakes. Despite a brief moment of hope with a NagZet clutch and defuse, FPX swiftly secured map point. They then stormed the A site to win KRÜ’s map pick of Icebox 13-9.
FPX continued their dominance on Ascent, the map chosen by FPX. They quickly secured a 5-0 lead on the attacking side, leading KRÜ to call a timeout. KRÜ adjusted their strategy, taking more aggressive angles and baiting out FPX’s utility. Despite their efforts, KRÜ struggled to maintain momentum against FPX’s precise gameplay. They entered the second half trailing 9-3 and switched to the attacking side on FPX’s pick.
The pistol round on Ascent was won by suygetsu, further strengthening FPX’s lead. Although KRÜ managed to win a clutch post-plant round, FPX quickly secured match point with a dominant defensive setup. Ardiis sealed KRÜ’s fate with a stunning ace, closing out the map and the series.
FPX’s performance in the group stage mirrors their run at Masters Copenhagen, starting slow but finishing strong. With their victory and a secured spot in the playoffs, FPX now looks forward to their first-round matchup against DRX, whom they previously defeated convincingly in the lower bracket of Copenhagen.
VALORANT Champions, FunPlus Phoenix, KRÜ Esports, playoffs, Icebox, Ascent, domination, victory, match point, impressive gameplay