January 23rd will be a decisive day for one of the teams — EDward Gaming or Dragon Ranger — as the losing side in this match will be eliminated from the tournament. In this article, we’ll attempt to predict the winner by analyzing statistics, current form, and other gameplay factors.

Current Team Form

Dragon Ranger Gaming

Dragon Ranger Gaming has shown inconsistent results in recent months. The team placed 9th-10th at the VCT 2024: China Stage 2 and the FGC VALORANT Invitational 2024. However, their current form is impressive. Out of their last five matches, they’ve won four, losing only to Trace Esports. During the VCT 2025: China Kickoff, the team demonstrated solid gameplay, which secured them a spot in the lower bracket semifinals.

EDward Gaming

As reigning world champions, EDward Gaming has faced certain challenges. Their participation in the Superb Cup, FGC VALORANT Invitational 2024, and WALL-E Cup resulted in two runner-up finishes and a 5th-6th placement. In the current tournament, EDward Gaming has won one out of two matches but remains the favorite due to their extensive experience. In their last five matches, they’ve won three, losing to Trace Esports and Nova Esports.

Team Map Pools

Dragon Ranger Gaming

The team frequently picks Ascent (33 games, 55% win rate). Their most successful maps are Bind, Icebox, and Pearl (each with a 57% win rate). It’s expected that Dragon Ranger Gaming will aim to retain one of their strong maps for the first or deciding game.

EDward Gaming

EDward Gaming frequently picks Bind (80 games) and Haven (68 games). Their most successful maps are Breeze (74% win rate), Sunset (69%), and Abyss (67%). They are likely to include their strongest maps in the pool to reduce their opponent’s chances.

Predicted Map Picks

• Bans: DRG will ban Breeze, and EDG will remove Ascent.
• Picks: DRG will pick Bind, while EDG will choose Haven.
• Decider: Sunset will likely remain due to its versatility and EDG's high win rate.

Head-to-Head Record

In the past six months, Dragon Ranger Gaming and EDward Gaming have not faced each other, adding intrigue to this matchup. The lack of head-to-head statistics introduces uncertainty but also provides opportunities for strategic surprises.

Match Prediction

Considering Dragon Ranger Gaming’s current form and EDward Gaming experience, the latter remains the favorite. However, DRG’s recent success and ability to perform well on key maps make them a serious contender.

Prediction: Match Score: 2-1 in favor of EDward Gaming. Key Factors: EDward Gaming is expected to dominate Haven due to their experience and preparation. DRG could challenge on Bind, but Sunset will likely be the deciding factor, where EDG’s experience will play a crucial role.