The matchup between MKOI and Karmine Corp will close out the second week of VCT 2025: EMEA Stage 1. One of these teams will finally secure their first win of the tournament — and in this analysis, we’ll break down both teams’ performance and predict who will come out on top.

Current Form of the Teams

MKOI

MKOI’s start to the season has been disappointing — they lost both matches at VCT 2025: EMEA Kickoff and finished in 9–12th place. Since the start of the year, MKOI have played only three official matches — all losses, including their Stage 1 debut against FUT Esports. Despite the rough start, the organization opted not to make any roster changes, showing faith in the current lineup’s potential.

Karmine Corp

Karmine Corp also entered the season with high expectations, especially with a star-studded lineup led by Saadhak, but results have fallen short. They also finished in the 9–12th range at Kickoff, winning just one match that wasn’t enough to improve their standings. In the current season, KC have played four matches and lost three, including their Stage 1 opener against BBL Esports. Like MKOI, they’ve made no changes to the roster so far.

Teams’ Map Pool

Projected Map Veto Process:

Ban 1:

• MKOI — Haven
• Karmine Corp — Split

Pick 1:

• MKOI — Icebox
• Karmine Corp — Lotus

Ban 2:

• MKOI — Pearl
• Karmine Corp — Fracture

Decider:

• Ascent

Head-to-Head History

These two rosters haven’t faced each other yet in their current forms. However, the historical record heavily favors Karmine Corp — they’ve won all four of their past meetings with MKOI. That gives KC a psychological edge going into this matchup, even if the meta and lineups have changed.

Match Prediction

Both teams are underperforming this season: bottom placements at Kickoff, losses in their Stage 1 debuts, and no roster shakeups. However, Karmine Corp has the edge in one key area — individual experience. Players like Saadhak bring high-level leadership and composure in pressure moments, which could be a decisive factor.

MKOI still seem to lack cohesion and consistency, and while motivated, they haven’t yet shown signs of translating that into results. KC’s past dominance in this matchup and better individual quality give them the upper hand.

Prediction: Karmine Corp will win 2:0.

VCT 2025: EMEA Stage 1 runs from March 26 to May 18. The event features top EMEA teams fighting for three spots at VCT 2025: Masters Toronto and crucial Points toward qualification for VALORANT Champions. More info on results and upcoming matches is available via the official schedule link.