Team Liquid vs FUT Esports is the match to watch out for in the third week of the VCT EMEA Stage 1 2026 group stage. The two undefeated teams from Group Alpha have had a strong comeback following their performance in previous competitions.
Here are the odds and our betting predictions for this VCT EMEA Stage 1 Group Stage 2026 match-up
For more VALORANT betting odds, check out our article here.
Image credit: Riot Games
In the VCT 2026 season, Team Liquid have been on quite a rise. This season, they signed Miniboo to their roster from Team Heretics, becoming one of the best teams in the region.
It must be noted that alongside FUT Esports, Team Liquid are undefeated in this competition and haven’t lost a single map so far.
If we take a look on the other side of the ring, FUT Esports were on a downward spiral. During VCT EMEA Kickoff 2026, they lost three matches in a row, getting eliminated from the event.
Due to them finishing in last place, they got the opportunity to take part in VCT EMEA Clash 2026. Prior to the tournament, they added the duo of Efe “s0pp” Tur and Volkan “sociablEE” Yönal to their roster. As a result, they finished third after losing in the grand final of the Alpha bracket.
Since the addition of the duo, the team started on the front foot, defeating both Gentle Mates and NAVI.
Interestingly, in the match against NAVI, FUT Esports secured a reverse sweep, proving their mental strength. This will be crucial as the winner of this match will secure qualification to the playoffs of VCT EMEA Stage 1 2026.
Image credit: Riot Games
Team Liquids are, unsurprisingly, the favorites to win given FUT Esports couldn’t qualify for Masters.
This season, Team Liquid signed purp0 to their roster, who has gone on to become one of the best players in EMEA. Currently, the player has a 1.54 KD ratio.
The one stat going in favor of FUT Esports is their win rate on pistol rounds. The team currently has the highest in the region, at a 59% win-rate. This, compared to Team Liquid’s 45%, shows that there is a high chance FUT Esports can gain early momentum on each map.
If we take a look at the average round time for each team, Team Liquid are a lot slower than FUT Esports. They have an average time of 52 seconds, while FUT Esports has 44 seconds; thus, based on the situation of the game, this difference in time could affect the team.
In our opinion, we believe that this series will be a three-map affair. We predict that Team Liquid will continue their unbeaten run in the tournament and win with a 2-1 scoreline.
Also read: Global Esports could finally reach VCT Pacific playoffs in Stage 1 2026
Featured image credit: Riot Games
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