As you’re no doubt well aware, the third qualifying round of the Galaxy Cup is now behind us, with the finals set to take place at the Kinguin Lounge in Gdańsk. As is the case every week, there was no shortage of excitement, especially as some familiar teams returned to the server. In the first round, Vandals Clan were on the brink of qualification, only to lose in the decisive match. In the second round, however, the spot was snatched by another team from the partner programme, namely Gloris eSports. This time, we’re once again focusing on the performances of Vandals Clan, but also Superion Gaming, as we take a look at how these teams fared in the third round of qualifiers.
Vandals Clan were knocked out in the third round following a cruel twist of fate
Vandals Clan began their campaign with a bye, which automatically secured their progression to the second round. Whilst this was a comfortable start on the one hand, on the other it meant a lack of match warm-up, which can often have an impact on the first match played. In the second round, they faced OriginalPDFHunters, and it was clear from the outset that their rivals had no intention of giving up the match without a fight. The clash was far more evenly matched than the rankings or expectations might suggest. Vandals Clan eventually won 13-10, but it was not a wholly convincing performance. There were moments of hesitation, and their opponents came close to taking control of the match on several occasions. Despite this, the Vandals showed they could see out difficult finishes and closed out the match in their favour.
The real test, however, came a round later, when Locura Gatos took to the other side of the server. The start of the match belonged firmly to Vandals Clan, who very quickly took control of the game and built a massive lead, reaching as high as 11-2. At that point, everything pointed to a one-sided spectacle and a quick conclusion to the match. It seemed as though the Vandals had complete control of the situation. Over time, however, their rivals gradually began to fight their way back into the game, capitalising on successive mistakes and gaining increasing confidence. Vandals Clan’s lead began to dwindle, and the momentum was clearly shifting in Locura Gatos’ favour.
Unfortunately, that was precisely when the biggest problems arose. Instead of closing out the match in regulation time, Vandals Clan allowed their opponents to completely make up the deficit and force a draw, and subsequently extra time. In extra time, it was Locura Gatos who continued their run and maintained control of the match. They did not relinquish the initiative until the very end. The Vandals were unable to stop their opponents’ momentum, which ultimately resulted in a 14–16 defeat. Thus, their journey in the third qualifying round came to an end… And in particularly painful circumstances, as victory was practically within their grasp.
Superion Gaming a step further, but without promotion
Superion Gaming fared slightly better, having to fight for every stage from the very start. In the first round alone, they faced a tough opponent in Jonixal. The match was very evenly balanced, with neither side able to build a clear lead. Ultimately, overtime was needed to decide the winner, in which Superion Gaming kept their cool and performed better in the crucial moments, winning 16-14 and securing their place in the next round.
The second round was played in a slightly more controlled manner. Against BrasilStyle, Superion Gaming looked more confident and stable than before, minimising mistakes and controlling the flow of the match better. Although their opponents were able to respond at times, Superion maintained the upper hand for most of the match and did not allow the initiative to slip away. Ultimately, this resulted in a 13-9 victory, which secured them a comfortable progression to the next round without too much drama.
The third round, however, once again provided plenty of excitement. In their match against watch demo, Superion Gaming had to revert to a more demanding style of play, where every round mattered. The match was fiercely contested and remained neck-and-neck for a long time, but this time they managed to seal the deal within regulation time. The 13-11 result secured them a place in the fourth round and a realistic chance of fighting for promotion.
Unfortunately, that is where their journey ended. Facing the Four Armoured, Superion Gaming were no longer able to put up an equal fight. Their rivals set the pace from the start and controlled the match, not allowing Superion to spread their wings. Ultimately, the match ended 6–13, which meant the end of their participation in this qualifying round.
One last chance to go
The third qualifying round is behind us, which means the teams have one last chance to secure a spot at the LAN in Gdańsk. Tomorrow sees the fourth and final round of the Galaxy Cup qualifiers. That is when we will find out the final pair to check into the Kinguin Lounge and battle for the ultimate victory. Will our partners manage to secure the coveted slot this time? We’ll find out very soon.
Vandals Clan
English 
Polish 