VCT: Life's strong defense secures an ACE to clinch the match, FPX defeats PRX in the qualifier

During the first day of the 2025 Valorant Source Energy International Invitational qualifiers, FPX overcame PRX in the second game.

Map: Source Foundry

Defending team PRX: Raze, Fade, Viper, Neon, Omen

Attacking team FPX: Brimstone, Omen, Raze, Phoenix, Viper

In the first half, PRX’s three consecutive pushes were all stopped by FPX, allowing FPX to secure a three-win streak. In round 4, FPX maintained control of B long; d4v41 eliminated PRX’s Ayang at B short, forcing FPX to push aggressively into the site. PRX rotated back and coordinated to claim the first point. In round 5, FPX continued to control B long but was completely shut down by PRX’s utility defense. FPX’s no-flash lineup began to show weaknesses, struggling to push through direct setups, and after PRX took four straight points, FPX called their first timeout to adjust.

In round 9, PRX continued to pressure B site aggressively, but BerLIN held off three pushes in a row. In round 10, FPX’s lone flanker on the flank was eliminated, and the other four players failed to break through B site, getting eliminated as well. The half ended with PRX leading 8-4 over FPX.

In the second half, FPX won the pistol round. PRX’s rifle control split between B short and showers trapped FPX inside the site, securing a double kill. In round 16, Setrod defended inside smoke and successfully defused for a point. Shortly after, Setrod excelled by firing from B window, eliminating several PRX players pushing the site. FPX’s performance in these rounds was outstanding, tying the score at 9-9. Life’s Neon aggressive plays and tactical calls helped FPX take the lead. In round 22, a mixed smoke push on A site saw sScary secure match point with an Odin spray. However, in round 24, FPX lost control of B site and struggled to retake, allowing PRX to stall and force overtime.

In overtime, FPX’s offense took control of B site by securing Black site with double crossfires, while PRX failed to contest and were outnumbered. After switching sides, Life’s Neon secured the first kill in showers, but PRX exploded with a site push soon after. In round 27, FPX broke through B long strongly to claim the point. In round 28, Life’s roaming play on the site resulted in an ACE to end the match, with FPX defeating PRX 15-13.