Team Liquid eliminated from Champions Paris by DRX

On Day 9 of VALORANT Champions Tour 2025 - Valorant Champions, another shock unfolded as Team Liquid, the EMEA champions, were eliminated after a 2-0 defeat to DRX. The Pacific fourth seed, considered underdogs in the group, managed to topple one of the biggest names in the tournament. This loss marks yet another disappointing early international exit for Liquid, continuing their streak of missing playoffs on the global stage.

This was not the first clash between the two teams at Champions Paris. Having already met in the opening bout of Group C, DRX had previously beaten Liquid with a dominant 2-0 performance on Abyss and Bind. Their second meeting showcased a similar storyline, as DRX convincingly held their ground despite Liquid switching things up on their own map pick, Corrode.

Nats’ Surprise Role Change

Looking to catch DRX off guard, Liquid made a bold change, with Ayaz "nAts" Akhmetshin opting to play in an uncharacteristic role. Known for his consistency as a Controller and Sentinel, the former Gambit star shocked everyone by picking up Waylay as a Duelist.

It was the first time in over 500 professional matches that nAts played the role, highlighting Liquid’s desperation to find a winning formula. But despite the curveball, the Pacific squad adapted seamlessly and prevented Liquid from capitalizing.

For Liquid, this marks their eighth consecutive international event without making it past the group stage. Despite their status as regional champions, the roster has been plagued by inconsistency when playing outside of EMEA.

DRX Keep Their Upper Hand

In contrast, DRX’s run continues to gain momentum. their win came off the back of some truly standout performances. Cho "Flashback" Min-hyuk set the pace with clinical OP control, dictating rounds with early picks. Alongside him, Hyun-min " HYUNMIN" Song delivered consistent impact on the rifle, tearing through Liquid’s defenses. The synergy of DRX’s individual brilliance and team coordination once again left Liquid searching for answers they could not find.

With this win, DRX advance to playoffs as the second Pacific team to do so, defying expectations as a fourth seed. They are also the second fourth seed team to qualify after Team Heretics. Now heading into the playoffs, DRX carry newfound confidence as they set their sights on upsetting even more giants at Champions Paris.

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Featured Image Source: Colin Young-Wolff/Riot Games