In a high-stakes elimination match at the Esports World Cup 2025 in Riyadh, EDward Gaming (EDG) staged a comeback to defeat North America’s 100 Thieves 2–1, ending 100T’s tournament run in the group stage.
Map-by-Map Breakdown
Haven
100 Thieves started the series strong, executing crisp site takes and demonstrating excellent map control. Their early momentum carried them to a 13–8 win, setting the tone and putting EDG on the back foot.
Sunset
EDward Gaming answered back on Sunset, making sharp mid-round adjustments and punishing 100T’s over-aggression. EDG’s improved post-plant setups and confident retakes turned the tide, allowing them to claim the map 13–7 and even the series
Ascent
The final map was a tense, back-and-forth affair. Both teams traded rounds, but EDG’s adaptability and clutch play ultimately made the difference. ZmjjKK’s explosive entries on Jett, combined with disciplined team coordination, helped EDG edge out a 13–10 victory, sealing the series and their survival in the tournament
Standout Performances
Several players delivered exceptional performances that shaped the outcome of this elimination series. For EDward Gaming, ZmjjKK was the clear star, especially on the decider map, where his aggressive Jett play and high-impact frags swung crucial rounds in his team’s favour.
His ability to find openings and maintain pressure on 100 Thieves was a difference-maker, especially in the late game. On the other side, Asuna’s reliability on KAY/O kept 100 Thieves competitive, providing both utility and firepower when his team needed it most.
Cryocells, as always, was a threat on Jett, consistently finding kills and creating space, though ultimately it wasn’t enough to push 100 Thieves over the finish line.
- ZmjjKK (EDward Gaming, Jett):
- 26 kills on Ascent
- 201 ADR
- Instrumental in swinging key rounds and maintaining pressure on 100T
- Asuna (100 Thieves, KAY/O):
- 18/16/14 KDA on Ascent
- Provided crucial utility and fragging power
- Cryocells (100 Thieves, Jett):
- 19 kills on Ascent
- Consistent duelist impact, though fell just short in the final moments
Turning Points
EDward Gaming’s resilience after dropping Haven was key. They regrouped, tightened their teamplay, and executed better post-plants and retakes on Sunset. On Ascent, their ability to adapt to 100 Thieves’ set plays and win crucial late-round trades tipped the balance. ZmjjKK’s clutch entries and high-impact frags were decisive in closing out the match.
100 Thieves showed promise, especially early on, but struggled to sustain momentum. Costly late-round losses and missed opportunities on Ascent ultimately led to their elimination.
What’s Next?
- EDward Gaming: Advance to the Decider Match, where they will face Gen.G on July 10 for a spot in the EWC 2025 playoffs.
- 100 Thieves: Exit the tournament, marking an early end to their EWC campaign in a fiercely competitive group.
Sum Up
| Map | Winner | Score | Key Performers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haven | 100 Thieves | 13–8 | Asuna, Cryocells |
| Sunset | EDward Gaming | 13–7 | ZmjjKK |
| Ascent | EDward Gaming | 13–10 | ZmjjKK, Asuna, Cryocells |
Edward Gaming’s comeback victory keeps their EWC 2025 hopes alive, while 100 Thieves bow out after a hard-fought series. The focus now shifts to EDG’s upcoming clash with Gen.G for a coveted playoff berth.
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