VCT 2025 EMEA Stage 2 Playoffs: Viewer’s Guide — Schedule, Format, and Teams

The VCT 2025 EMEA Stage 2 Playoffs are set to deliver a thrilling showcase of top-tier Valorant competition. Running from August 21 to August 31 at the Riot Games Arena in Berlin, this stage brings together eight of the region’s best teams, all competing not only for a share of the $250,000 USD prize pool but also for a coveted spot at VALORANT Champions Paris. With a high-stakes double-elimination format, intense matchups, and a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, fans can expect every round to be packed with strategy, skill, and excitement. This guide will help viewers navigate the tournament, explore the participating teams and players, and provide insights into potential outcomes and standout performers.

Dates and Prize Pool of VCT 2025 EMEA Stage 2 Playoffs

The VCT 2025 EMEA Stage 2 is set to take place from July 16 to August 31, 2025, with the playoffs scheduled for August 21–31 at the Riot Games Arena in Berlin. The event carries a total prize pool of $250,000 USD, distributed among the top six placements, with the champion earning $100,000. The playoffs will feature a double-elimination bracket, beginning with the Upper Bracket Quarterfinals on August 21 and culminating in the Grand Final on August 31. Teams placing 1st through 6th will share the prize pool, while those finishing 7th and 8th will not receive a monetary reward. This stage not only offers significant financial incentives but also plays a crucial role in determining qualifications for larger international Valorant competitions.

Format of VCT 2025 EMEA Stage 2 Playoffs

The playoffs of VCT 2025 EMEA Stage 2 will follow an 8-team modified double-elimination bracket, ensuring both fairness and high-stakes competition. Seeding plays a key role: #1 seeds from each group advance directly to the Upper Bracket Semifinals, while #2 and #3 seeds start in the Upper Bracket Opening Round. Teams seeded #4 begin in the Lower Bracket Round 1, leaving them with no second chance if they lose. Most matches will be played in a best-of-three (Bo3) format, but the Lower Bracket Final and Grand Final will be best-of-five (Bo5), adding extra tension to the decisive games. Importantly, the top two teams in the Playoffs will secure direct qualification to VALORANT Champions Paris, while the rest will depend on their Championship Points to keep international hopes alive.

Participants of VCT 2025 EMEA Stage 2 Playoffs
Eight teams remain in the playoffs. We invite you to take a closer look at each team and also check out their current rosters.

Based on the group stage results, KOI and FUT Esports finished in 9th–10th place and were eliminated from the tournament, while Gentle Mates and Apeks ended their run in 11th–12th place.

VCT 2025 EMEA Stage 2 Playoffs: Full Match Schedule

The VCT 2025 EMEA Stage 2 Playoffs match schedule kicks off on Thursday, August 21, with Fnatic facing BBL Esports at 17:00 CEST, followed by GIANTX taking on Natus Vincere at 20:00 CEST. On Friday, August 22, Team Heretics will clash with the winner of Fnatic/BBL at 17:00 CEST, while Team Liquid meets the winner of GIANTX/NAVI at 20:00 CEST. Saturday, August 23, features Karmine Corp versus a TBD opponent at 17:00 CEST and Team Vitality facing another TBD team at 20:00 CEST. Lower Bracket Rounds 1 and 2 will take place on Sunday, August 24, at 17:00 CEST and 20:00 CEST respectively. The Upper Bracket Final is scheduled for Friday, August 29, at 17:00 CEST, followed by the Lower Bracket Semifinal at 20:00 CEST. The Lower Bracket Final will be held on Saturday, August 30, at 18:00 CEST, leading into the Grand Final on Sunday, August 31.

VCT 2025 EMEA Stage 2 Playoffs: Prediction & Analysis

Heading into the playoffs, Team Heretics and Fnatic appear as the main favorites. Both teams performed consistently during the group stage, demonstrating a high level of discipline and confident individual play. Fnatic is traditionally known for its extensive international experience and ability to adapt to opponents’ styles, making them one of the most challenging teams in the bracket. Team Heretics, on the other hand, display an aggressive yet well-organized approach, combining young talent with experienced players, which gives them flexibility in choosing strategies. These factors make them the most likely contenders to reach the final rounds.

Nevertheless, the tournament could bring surprises. First and foremost, Team Liquid stands out, as they do not always show consistency but possess significant potential. The team includes players capable of turning the course of a match single-handedly, and their unconventional strategies and unexpected map decisions often put opponents in difficult situations. If key players — nAts and kamo — perform confidently and reach their maximum potential, Liquid could very well become the main source of upsets. One can expect a “miracle” from them that could shake up the standings and make the playoffs even more intense and unpredictable.