The Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) Americas Kickoff for 2024 has unveiled its group stage draws, and luck seems to have favored KRÜ Esports. In the unpredictable world of esports, the draw can significantly impact a team’s journey. Riot Games revealed the groups on Wednesday, setting the stage for some highly anticipated matches, especially in Group B.
Group A: A Clash of Regions
Group A presents a stark contrast between North American and Brazilian teams. NRG Esports, boasting two reigning world champions, will face off against FURIA Esports in the inaugural match of the VCT Americas Kickoff. The other side of the bracket features Cloud9 and MIBR, with the winners of the initial matches clashing for a direct spot in the playoffs.
Group B: The Spotlight Section
Group B stands out as the most intriguing group. The reigning VCT champions of America, LOUD, are pitted against Sentinels. Players like Gustavo «Sacy» Rossi will face their former team in what promises to be an electrifying match. Following that, Leviatán, bolstered by new additions Erick «aspas» Santos and Corbin «C0M» Lee, will take on 100 Thieves.
Fortune Favors KRÜ Esports in Group C
KRÜ Esports, founded by ex-footballer Sergio Agüero, finds itself in a three-team group, starting off against G2 Esports. Evil Geniuses, the reigning world champions with Alexander «jawgemo» Mor as their mainstay, have the advantage of being a round ahead after winning the VALORANT Champions in 2023.
VCT Americas to Kickoff Before EMEA
The Kickoff format is consistent across regions, with China being the only region yet to announce its group stage draw. The VCT Americas will commence on February 16th, four days before the EMEA kickoff, beginning with Group A. Group B and C will follow on the 17th and 18th of February, respectively.
Play-In and Playoffs to Follow
The Play-In stage, starting on February 27th, will determine the final participant in the playoffs, which begin on March 1st. The American VALORANT scene is thriving with clubs that command large social followings.
Tickets for the LOUD vs. Sentinels match were sold out in less than four hours, indicating the high level of anticipation and excitement for the VCT Americas Kickoff.
The Luck of the Draw in Valorant VCT Americas Kickoff
The VCT Americas Kickoff is shaping up to be a highly competitive and thrilling event, with teams like KRÜ Esports benefitting from a favorable group draw. This tournament is a testament to the growing popularity and intensity of the Valorant esports scene in the Americas.