NRG Esports and Cloud9 suffered defeats in their lower bracket playoff matches at VCT 2025: Americas Stage 1 and have been eliminated from the tournament, ending their run for a spot at Masters Toronto 2025.

NRG Esports vs. 100 Thieves

The matchday at VCT 2025: Americas Stage 1 began with a showdown between NRG Esports and 100 Thieves. Both teams had a tough group stage, making the matchup evenly matched with 50/50 odds. However, 100 Thieves came out on top. The match began on Fracture (100 Thieves' pick), where NRG were crushed with a 13:5 score, as zander dominated on Brimstone with 28 kills and a 4.0 K/D. On Haven (NRG’s pick), the battle was much closer — NRG put up a strong fight, but 100 Thieves managed to close out the map 13:11 in the final rounds. The result: a 2–0 win for 100 Thieves. Still, they need at least two more consecutive victories to secure a spot at Masters Toronto.

Cloud9 vs. Evil Geniuses

Evil Geniuses, despite skepticism around their chances, continue to prove they can contend for a Masters Toronto spot. The team made it out of the group stage in fourth place and immediately entered the lower bracket of the playoffs. In their first match, they faced Cloud9, who were considered the favorites. However, EG secured a confident 2–0 win — 13:9 on Fracture and 15:13 on Icebox.

VCT 2025: Americas Stage 1 runs from March 21 to May 4. During the event, 12 teams are competing for three spots at VCT 2025: Masters Toronto and valuable Americas Points needed for further qualification to Champions.