Photo: Riot Games
Meanwhile, DRX and Trace Esports drop to the lower bracket quarterfinal.
The 2024 VALORANT Champions Playoffs kicked off with a bang as North American powerhouse Sentinels and EDward Gaming (EDG) swept their opponents 2-0 in the first day’s action, setting the stage for an intense road to the finals.
Sentinels had recently upset Gen.G’s dominant run in a 2-0 sweep to make it to the Playoffs while DRX had a dominant run in Group A on their way to the Playoffs.
On the other hand, it was EDG that eliminated VCT Pacific second seed Paper Rex 2-1 in Group D, while Trace Esports dominated Group C to face EDG in the upper bracket quarterfinals.
Sentinels sweep DRX 2-0 in a close series
The first map, Sunset, began with Sentinels starting strong on the offensive side. Despite DRX's efforts on defense, the first half concluded in a 6-6 tie. As the second half progressed, Sentinels initially took the lead as defenders. However, as pressure mounted, DRX surged forward, reaching match point with a 12-11 lead.
In a dramatic overtime, Sentinels pulled off a miracle comeback after losing five rounds in a row and being down 3v5 in DRX's match point.
After a nail-biting series of rounds, DRX secured the first overtime round (26th round), but Sentinels rallied back, eventually clinching a 14-13 victory.
Switching to Haven, DRX started on the offensive side and initially seemed to control the game. However, Sentinels made a crucial adjustment, turning the momentum in their favour.
The first half ended even at 6-6, with DRX pulling ahead in the last two rounds.
In the second half, as DRX continued their offensive push, Sentinels gained full momentum, ultimately winning the match 13-8 and securing their spot in the upper bracket semifinals.
EDward Gaming trounce Trace Esports 2-0
EDward Gaming (EDG) displayed their dominance on Bind, leading the first half with a commanding 10-2 score. They continued their strong performance into the second half, closing the game 13-7 despite Trace Esports' attempts to fight back. EDG's ZmjjKK was a standout player, driving their team to victory.
In the second map on Sunset, EDG started on the offensive side and quickly established a 10-2 lead in the first half. Trace Esports showed signs of life with a 7-1 run, led by the impressive performance of kai. Despite this brief resurgence, EDG maintained their composure and closed out the game 13-10.
With today's results, Sentinels and EDward Gaming advance to the upper bracket semifinals, scheduled for Saturday, (17 August).
Meanwhile, DRX and Trace Esports will drop to the lower bracket and prepare for their crucial lower bracket quarterfinal matches on Friday, 16 August 16, where they will fight for survival to remain in the competition.
