FNATIC vs Gen.G – VCT Masters Shanghai Playoffs: Gen.G knocks FNC to Lower Bracket

The time has come for the VCT Masters Shanghai Playoffs. After the first seeds from each region selected their opening round opponents, we find ourselves with FNATIC vs Gen.G. All eyes will definitely be on this series.

Surprisingly, there was not a single EMEA versus Pacific series during the VCT Masters Shanghai Swiss Stage. T1 only played Americas teams before their elimination, and Gen.G played LEV and FPX for a 2-0 record to advance to the playoffs.

So, that puts us with FNATIC taking on Gen.G as the second playoff match of the tournament. These are two powerhouse teams that are known for their strategic gameplay, but also their ability to get a bit chaotic if the moment calls for it.

FNATIC had a long time to prepare for this match up, though Gen.G was not far behind. Since FNATIC skipped the Swiss Stage, they had just a bit a longer, but Gen.G qualified early to ensure ample rest before the playoffs began.

As always, we have a stream embedded for you just below. You can watch with us as we recap the series. Otherwise, you'll find the match on any official VALORANT channel or co-stream across Twitch and YouTube.

Read on for a recap and clips that highlight the series, with updates every half of each map.

Gen.G started with a pistol round to their name, but FNATIC immediately retaliated. A 3K from Leo was stifled by a 3K from Lakia, and Gen.G took the lead. The rounds went back and forth for just a bit, and another 3K from Leo made sure Gen.G didn't pull ahead.

In fact, FNATIC moved passed Gen.G to get themselves a guaranteed halftime lead. A 3K from Munchkin wasn't enough to secure a round, as Alfajer shut him down for the defuse. Their defense was strong, giving them a 9:3 at the half.

A 4K from Munchkin started off the second half of Lotus, getting Gen.G the pistol round. They slowly started to close the gap. More big plays from Munchkin got Gen.G closer and closer to tying the rounds late in this one.

They were one round off from tying it, but FNATIC put together a great attacking round to hit double digits. Soon after, a Gen.G retake finally gave them the tie they've been chasing. FNATIC took the lead right back, however. And from there, they pushed to the end up and went up in the series.

The pistol round came down to a 1v1 that went in favor of Karon for Gen.G. FNATIC would take the Gen.G bonus to get a round, but Gen.G stayed strong on defense. Karon continued his stellar play early on. This pushed Gen.G further and further ahead of FNATIC.

A 3K from Alfajer finally got FNATIC back on track. A Flawless round went in their favor and they were just one away from starting the second half with a tied score. And tie it they did, heading into halftime with an even score line.

The half started with a 4K pistol round by Alfajer as he continued to have Gen.G's number. They also took the next, but Gen.G stole away their bonus. After that, the game was tied at eight a piece with a victory looming for FNATIC or a third map on the horizon for Gen.G.

Gen.G began to pull ahead with a devastating attacking strategy. They continuously got the Spike planted and find themselves ready to tie the series. Map point arrived, but FNATIC got themselves to double digits. Preventing a retake, Gen.G secured a map three.

The third map kicked off with a quick pistol round for Gen.G. The next one was theirs with just as much quickness. Gen.G also converted their bonus, preventing FNATIC from even getting the Spike down. A nice Thrifty is what finally got FNATIC on the board.

A B Site hit followed to bring FNC closer to Gen.G's round count. That got FNATIC some momentum. A 4K from Chronicle pushed them ahead as the first half inched toward its finale. It ended Gen.G giving themselves some breathing room heading into halftime.

FNATIC worked a pistol round to extend their lead as the defensive team. Of course, the next went in their favor, but Gen.G got the Spike down so they had plenty to buy up. They got their guns, rushed B, and shocked FNATIC for their first round of the second half.

FNATIC would get to double digits in the very next round, however. Gen.G were not down and out just yet. Some solid site execs kept them in it, and a huge round from lakia closed the gap. After tying it at 10, a 1v1 win for Munchkin put them ahead. They'd give just one more round to FNATIC before completing the comeback and taking the win.

Stay tuned to esports.gg for more esports news and VALORANT coverage.