The "Blue Wall" has finally reached the summit. In a display of resilience that will be remembered as one of the greatest mid-season turnarounds in Valorant history, Karmine Corp has been crowned the VCT EMEA Stage 2 champions.
Following a disastrous Stage 1 that saw the team finish with a winless 0-5 record, few expected the French organization to challenge for silverware. Yet, in the Olimpic Arena in Badalona, they dismantled Team Liquid 3-1 to claim their first-ever VCT trophy.
From Zero to Hero
The transformation of this roster has been nothing short of cinematic. After failing to secure a single series win earlier this year, the team returned to the server with a renewed sense of purpose. A 4-1 group stage finish set the tone, but their playoff run was the true statement of intent. Sweeping through the bracket, they arrived at the Grand Final with momentum, confidence, and a clear tactical edge.
The series itself was a masterclass in adaptation. Karmine Corp opened the veto by banning Split and Abyss, effectively neutralizing some of Team Liquid’s preferred options. On the server, Dastan "dos9" Zhumagali led the charge. His performance across the four maps—Sunset, Ascent, Lotus, and Summit—was instrumental, with the Kazakh star anchoring the team's defense and providing crucial impact kills when the pressure peaked.
What This Means for Champions
This victory is more than just a trophy; it secures Karmine Corp the top seed for Champions Shanghai. For a team that spent months questioning its own identity, this title serves as a massive validation of their project.
Team Liquid, while disappointed to fall at the final hurdle, also secured their place in Shanghai, proving that both finalists are currently among the most dangerous rosters in the region. As the focus shifts to the international stage, the question is no longer whether Karmine Corp can compete, but how far this newfound momentum will carry them.
Keep an eye on our matches page for upcoming schedules as the road to Shanghai continues.