Team Heretics eliminate NAVI in VCT 2026: EMEA Kickoff

Team Heretics defeated Natus Vincere in the VCT 2026: EMEA Kickoff Lower Bracket, securing a 2:0 victory in the Best-of-3 series. The matchup highlighted Heretics’ superior coordination and aggression, while NAVI struggled to find momentum and could not respond effectively to the Spanish squad’s pressure.

Heretics set the tone from the very beginning and maintained control throughout the series, shutting down NAVI’s attack opportunities and consistently winning key engagements to close the series without allowing a decider.

Haven — 13:5 Team Heretics

The opening map was dominated by Heretics from the first round. They controlled both attack and defense, limited NAVI ’s ability to secure rounds, and applied constant pressure in post-plant situations. NAVI failed to gain traction at any point, as Heretics efficiently locked down sites and closed Haven decisively 13:5.

Breeze — 13:4 Team Heretics

On Breeze, Heretics maintained full control, dictating tempo and winning crucial duels. NAVI struggled to hold sites and lacked the early-round control needed to mount a comeback. Heretics wrapped up the second map 13:4, completing a clean sweep and securing their place in the next lower bracket round.

Team Heretics controlled the series overall, dominating Haven and continuing their strong performance on Breeze. NAVI were unable to recover at any point and are now eliminated from the tournament.

The 2:0 victory allows Team Heretics to continue their run in the lower bracket of VCT 2026: EMEA Kickoff, while Natus Vincere are eliminated from the event and will not progress to Masters Santiago.

VCT 2026: EMEA Kickoff features 12 teams and serves as a crucial early-season event, with results directly impacting qualification for Masters Santiago. Fnatic entered the tournament as one of the clear title contenders, and this performance sent a strong message that the team is ready to fight for the top from the very beginning of the season.