After four qualification events, professional players and spectators have finally reached the beginning of the first major international tournament of 2025 – Masters Bangkok. The tournament is set to kick off in just a few days, and today, we will discuss the opening match between EDward Gaming and Team Liquid, analyzing both teams’ current form and predicting the potential outcome.

Current Form of the Teams

EDward Gaming

The Chinese squad is currently the reigning world champion, having won Valorant Champions 2024. Although their OFFSEASON performances were underwhelming, EDG fully redeemed themselves in the VCT 2025: China Kickoff, securing first place and earning their spot at Masters Bangkok. In their last five matches, EDward Gaming recorded four victories against Xi Lai Gaming, Dragon Ranger Gaming, Bilibili Gaming, and Trace Esports, with their only defeat coming against JDG Esports.

Despite some struggles, EDG remains one of the tournament favorites. The team has a proven ability to manage their energy effectively, focusing on major events while taking a more relaxed approach to less significant tournaments. This was evident in their recent China Evolution Series: Act 1, where they finished last. However, this event had no impact on their qualification chances, suggesting that the coaching staff deliberately chose to conserve energy ahead of Masters Bangkok.

Team Liquid

Team Liquid presents a direct contrast to their Chinese opponents. At first glance, TL appears to be an underdog, but their impressive runner-up finish in the qualifiers proves they are not to be underestimated. In their last five matches, Liquid secured four wins against Team Heretics, BBL Esports, GIANTX, and FUT Esports, suffering only one loss to Team Vitality.

This Liquid roster is difficult to evaluate. On one hand, their 2024 performances were mediocre, yet on the other, their recent form has been surprisingly strong. Additionally, their two newcomers have performed well, raising the possibility that Liquid may not be as much of an underdog as they seem.

Map Pool Predictions

Expected Bans:

• EDward Gaming will likely ban Haven.
• Team Liquid will likely ban Fracture.

Expected Picks:

• EDward Gaming might choose Abyss or Bind.

• Team Liquid is expected to pick Split.

Head-to-Head History

The two teams haven’t faced each other in the past six months. Their last encounter dates back to 2023, when Team Liquid emerged victorious. However, that match holds little relevance given the roster and meta changes since then.

Match Prediction

This matchup is intriguing, as it features an apparent tournament favorite vs. an underdog. However, as discussed earlier, these labels don’t fully apply here. EDward Gaming has a tendency to drop games to weaker teams, while Liquid is currently on an unexpected winning streak. Despite this, we still favor EDward Gaming, as their ability to deliver strong performances on the international stage gives them the edge.

Predicted Score: EDward Gaming to win 2-0

Masters Bangkok 2025 will take place from February 20 to March 2 in LAN format at UOB Live. The tournament features eight partnered teams (two from each region) competing for a $500,000 prize pool, VCT Points necessary for Valorant Champions 2025 qualification, and the prestigious Masters title.