FPX upset FUT on Day 1 of Masters Shanghai
On the opening day of VCT Masters Shanghai, FunPlus Phoenix delivered an electrifying performance, securing their first international victory by upsetting FUT Esports in a nail-biting 3-map saga.
The series, which showcased the resilience and strategic prowess of FPX, concluded with a 2-1 triumph for the Chinese side.
This victory also marked FPX's first international triumph and highlighted their potential as strong contenders in the tournament.
“I really want to appreciate this win because it proved all of our hard work and what we have done for this tournament.”
-Qu "Life" Donghao
FunPlus Phoenix 2-1 FUT Esports
The series kicked off on Sunset, FUT's pick, with the Turkish team taking the early rounds. However, FPX quickly found their stride, dominating the first half with a 9-3 lead. Despite FUT's initial success in the second half, FPX maintained their momentum and closed the map 13-7.
Although FPX were playing on home soil, and FUT were clearly the visitors, this did not affect the Turkish side.
“Actually, playing in FPX’s crowd pushed us even more. Because when they were silent, we would shout even more.”
-Eray "GAIS" Sarıkaya, Head Coach of FUT Esports
Lotus, FPX's chosen map, started with FUT in control, ending the first half 8-4. FPX, led by standout performances from Chang "BerLIN" Po-lin and Qu "Life" Donghao, mounted a strong comeback, winning six consecutive rounds.
Although questions were asked of BerLIN’s performances during Masters Madrid, he definitely showed up today.
“I didn’t feel there was a lot of difference about me. At this point we just know if I should play more individually or as a team… and to those doubters that question me or FunPlus, I just want to say that we’re just going to keep improving.”
The teams battled fiercely, but FUT reached map point first and secured a 14-12 victory in overtime.
The decider, Icebox, began with FUT taking an 8-4 lead in the first half. However, FPX staged a dramatic comeback in the second half, winning nine straight rounds thanks to some impactful plays by Liang "Lysoar" Youhao. FPX clinched the map 13-10, winning the series 2-1.
Looking Ahead:
Now with one match down, FUT Esports will fight for survival in Round 2 of the Swiss Stage. Although their opponent is yet to be known, coach GAIS is already looking at the bigger picture.
“Tomorrow if we win, we get another chance, and then another chance. All of these matches are important for Champions. Even if we get eliminated, it’s not the end of the world. The main goal is to qualify for Champions.”
Meanwhile, FPX are now in the race to qualify for the playoffs, with only one win required to do so. Coach Deng "NaThanD" Senqiao is ready and confident that his team will be able to handle any challenges thrown their way.
“Maybe we’ll try some counter strategy, counter-comps in game. It actually depends on what our opponents choose, I will choose the comps to counter them.”
The opening day of VCT Masters Shanghai has set a high bar for excitement and competition, with FunPlus Phoenix's remarkable victory over FUT Esports highlighting their potential as strong contenders.
As the tournament progresses, FPX's confidence and adaptability will be crucial in their pursuit of a playoff spot. Meanwhile, FUT Esports remains determined, viewing each match as an opportunity to grow and edge closer to their ultimate goal of qualifying for Champions.
Stay tuned to Strafe Esports for more updates on VCT Masters Shanghai. Stay tuned on Strafe YouTube for exclusive interviews, press conferences and more. You can also follow the VALORANT Champions Tour official X account for recent updates.
Featured Image Source: David Lee/Riot Games
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