On April 11, Karmine Corp will face Gentle Mates in the group stage of VCT 2025: EMEA Stage 1. Both teams currently hold a 1:1 record in Group Omega, meaning both still have a solid chance of reaching the playoffs, even in case of a loss.
Current Form
Gentle Mates
For Gentle Mates, the new VCT 2025 season has been a challenge. After a complete roster rebuild, the team finished 7th–8th at VCT 2025: EMEA Kickoff — not a bad result for a new squad, especially considering their losses came against top-tier teams like FUT Esports, Fnatic, and Team Heretics. At the same time, Gentle Mates managed to defeat Team Liquid and MKOI, demonstrating the potential of their new roster.
| Date & Time | Team 1 | Score | Team 2 | Tournament |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 03, 18:00 | Gentle Mates | 1 - 2 | FUT Esports | VCT 2025: EMEA Stage 1 |
| Mar 28, 20:30 | Gentle Mates | 2 - 1 | Team Liquid | VCT 2025: EMEA Stage 1 |
| Jan 30, 19:00 | Gentle Mates | 0 - 2 | Fnatic | VCT 2025: EMEA Kickoff |
| Jan 24, 22:15 | Gentle Mates | 2 - 1 | KOI | VCT 2025: EMEA Kickoff |
| Jan 22, 21:30 | Gentle Mates | 1 - 2 | Team Heretics | VCT 2025: EMEA Kickoff |
| Jan 16, 22:00 | Gentle Mates | 2 - 0 | Apeks | VCT 2025: EMEA Kickoff |
Ahead of VCT 2025: EMEA Stage 1, the team strengthened even further with the addition of kamyk, formerly of Team Liquid.
Karmine Corp
Despite a star-studded lineup and high expectations, Karmine Corp have so far disappointed their fans. A poor showing at VCT 2025: EMEA Kickoff, where they finished 9th–12th, exposed several issues in their gameplay.
| Date & Time | Team 1 | Score | Team 2 | Tournament |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 04, 22:00 | Karmine Corp | 2 - 0 | KOI | VCT 2025: EMEA Stage 1 |
| Mar 26, 20:30 | Karmine Corp | 1 - 2 | BBL Esports | VCT 2025: EMEA Stage 1 |
| Jan 23, 19:00 | Karmine Corp | 1 - 2 | GIANTX | VCT 2025: EMEA Kickoff |
| Jan 17, 22:45 | Karmine Corp | 1 - 2 | Team Vitality | VCT 2025: EMEA Kickoff |
| Jan 15, 22:35 | Karmine Corp | 2 - 1 | Natus Vincere | VCT 2025: EMEA Kickoff |
In their last five matches, Karmine Corp have won only two — against MKOI and NAVI — while suffering losses even to regional mid-tier teams like BBL Esports and GiantX, as well as top teams like Team Vitality. However, the organization continues to trust Saadhak and the current roster without making changes.
Map Pool
Expected bans and picks scenario:
- Gentle Mates ban Ascent
- Karmine Corp ban Split
Map Picks:
- Gentle Mates pick Haven
- Karmine Corp pick Icebox
Second Ban Phase:
- Gentle Mates ban Fracture
- Karmine Corp ban Pearl
Decider:
- Lotus
Head-to-Head
In their current rosters, Gentle Mates and Karmine Corp have not faced each other on the professional stage. Historically, Karmine Corp holds the advantage with one 2:0 victory in previous seasons.
Match Prediction
On paper, this looks like a balanced matchup, but Gentle Mates have shown more promise early this season. The addition of kamyk and positive dynamics in matches against strong opponents work in their favor. Their strong form on Haven and Icebox further boosts their confidence on their map picks.
Karmine Corp has a powerful roster, but their inconsistent results and struggles even on their comfort maps raise concerns about their readiness for this match.
Most likely, Gentle Mates will take Haven, Karmine Corp will win Icebox, and on the decider Lotus, the chances look almost even. However, considering the recent performances and form of Gentle Mates, they appear to be the favorites on the final map.
Prediction: Gentle Mates to win 2:1
VCT 2025: EMEA Stage 1 runs from March 26 to May 18 in LAN format at the Riot Games Arena in Berlin. Twelve partnered teams from VCT EMEA are competing for three slots at Masters Toronto and valuable EMEA Points needed for qualification to VALORANT Champions.
Comments