After an exciting group stage, we have entered the final week of the VCT EMEA Stage 1. Among the most exciting matches of the week is GiantX vs Eternal Fire as this could decide who moves into the playoffs.
The match between GiantX and Eternal Fire will be a do-or-die match for both teams. The reason for this is due to the current seeding of the two teams in Group Omega of VCT EMEA Stage 1.
Eternal Fire is on a record of three wins with one loss and currently sits second in the group. GiantX, on the other hand, is in fourth place with two wins and losses apiece.
Similar to the match between Team Liquid and Gentle Mates, the winner of this match will qualify for a spot in the upper bracket.
But here is the twist, the map difference. Team Vitality is the team in fifth place with a map difference of +12 after completing all five matches (2W-3L). They currently have a positive round difference of +12 while GiantX is on a negative round difference of -9.
If they lose this game, then they will not qualify for the playoffs, with Team Vitality qualifying on round difference. In a way, GiantX shot themselves in the foot after losing their previous match against Fnatic after getting a one-map lead.
Following the Yoru nerfs, all the primary duelists for the team in VCT EMEA Stage 1 have shifted to Neon as their go-to agent. One player who has taken major advantage of this is Baran “Izzy” Yılmaz.
In the ongoing tournament, he has proven to be one of the best players on the agent. His entry frags have been quite crucial in all victories of Eternal Fire this tournament. This can be seen with Eternal Fire winning 78% of rounds where they get the first kill in the game.
Due to this fragging output, Eternal Fire has been able to gather momentum early in matches, winning 58% of all pistols rounds this year.
Another player that has been quite incredible is Soner “audaz” Ekiz. During VCT EMEA Stage 1, he has been the enabler for his team, averaging one assist every two rounds.
As it is a do-or-die game for GiantX, we know that they will be giving their best, knowing the situation they are in. This can also be seen in the betting odds, just giving the edge to GiantX as the favorite.
We believe that this would be enough for them to win one map but not win the series. Our prediction for this game is that Eternal Fire will win this game 2-1.
Also read: Global Esports make historic VCT Pacific playoffs debut after years of setbacks
Featured image source: Riot Games
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