NRG Edge Out MIBR in Upper Bracket Semifinal at VALORANT Champions 2025

On September 28, VALORANT Champions 2025 delivered one of the most intense playoff series so far, as NRG faced off against MIBR in the upper bracket semifinal. Both teams came prepared, showing different strengths across the three maps, but it was NRG who managed to hold their nerve and take the series with a 2-1 victory.

The opening map, Abyss, immediately set the tone for how close this matchup would be. Picked by MIBR, it was expected to be their comfort ground, and they proved difficult to stop. Aspas had an incredible performance, dropping 32 kills with only 15 deaths, while cortezia also delivered with 25 frags. The Brazilians maintained pressure throughout the map, forcing NRG into uncomfortable situations and pushing the game into overtime. Still, despite the odds, NRG showed their resilience, finding key rounds in the closing stages and stealing the map 16-14. This win gave them a crucial early advantage, but also highlighted that MIBR were more than capable of fighting back.

That fightback came on the second map, Haven, chosen by NRG. Instead of giving them comfort, it turned into a nightmare. From the very first rounds, MIBR set the pace and never let go of control. Their aggressive pushes and well-coordinated site executions left NRG with almost no response. The North American side struggled to adapt, and the scoreboard reflected their difficulties as MIBR stormed to a one-sided 13-4 win. With the series tied, all momentum appeared to swing back in favor of the Brazilians, who had completely shut down NRG’s game plan on this map.

The decider, Corrode, became the ultimate test of mental strength. Just like Abyss, it was an extremely close battle where no team could pull ahead by a wide margin. Both sides traded rounds deep into the map, creating constant tension as the scoreline edged closer to overtime once again. MIBR looked dangerous, fueled by their earlier success on Haven, but NRG refused to let the match slip away. In clutch situations, they found the key frags, coordinated retakes, and narrowly closed the map 16-14. For the second time in the series, NRG proved their ability to stay composed under pressure, and with that they sealed the semifinal victory.

The final scoreline of the match was NRG 2 – 1 MIBR with map results of 16-14 on Abyss, 4-13 on Haven, and 16-14 on Corrode. It was a series that showcased two very different narratives: MIBR’s raw firepower and ability to dominate when they hit their stride, and NRG’s composure and experience in tight, high-pressure situations.

This win propels NRG into the upper bracket final, giving them a strong chance to reach the grand final from the winners’ side. For MIBR, the loss is a tough blow, especially after their dominant showing on Haven and their strong performances on both overtime maps. They now fall into the lower bracket, where every match will be do-or-die if they want to keep their championship dreams alive.

Fnatic’s earlier comeback against Paper Rex and now NRG’s overtime thriller against MIBR underline how competitive the Champions 2025 playoffs have become. Each match feels like it could swing in any direction, and the level of individual talent combined with team strategies is creating unforgettable storylines. NRG’s victory over MIBR is a reminder that in VALORANT, mental strength and the ability to deliver in clutch rounds can be just as important as raw firepower.

Valorant Champions 2025 – Prize Pool Distribution ($2,250,000 USD)

• 1st place – $1,000,000 — TBD
• 2nd place – $400,000 — TBD
• 3rd place – $250,000 — TBD
• 4th place – $130,000 — TBD
• 5th–6th place – $85,000 — TBD, TBD
• 7th–8th place – $50,000 — G2 Esports, GIANTX
• 9th–12th place – $30,000 — XLG Esports, Rex Regum Qeon, Team Liquid, T1
• 13th–16th place – $20,000 — Sentinels, Bilibili Gaming, EDward Gaming, Dragon Ranger Gaming

VALORANT Champions 2025 is the largest tournament in the VALORANT discipline, serving as the grand finale of the VALORANT Champions Tour that took place throughout 2025. The event brings together 16 of the best teams from around the world to compete for a prize pool of $2,250,000. It is being held in Paris, France.