Yo, what's up everyone! Let's take a trip down memory lane and talk about one of the most HYPE grand finals in VALORANT esports history. Yeah, I'm talking about the 2022 VCT Stage 2 Masters Copenhagen. Even in 2026, thinking about that series gets me PUMPED. It was the ultimate clash of regions, narratives, and raw mechanical skill.

looking-back-that-epic-2022-valorant-masters-copenhagen-final-between-fpx-and-paper-rex-image-0

So, let's set the stage. The grand finals pitted Europe's finest, FunPlus Phoenix (FPX), against the absolute madlads from the Asia Pacific, Paper Rex (PRX). PRX was already making history just by being there—the first APAC team EVER to reach an international grand final. They were the ultimate underdog story, having just taken down the defending champs, OpTic Gaming. The hype was REAL.

But FPX? Man, they were on a mission. After NA had been dominating, EMEA was hungry to bring the crown back home. And let me tell you, the series they delivered... it was an absolute BANGER. A full five-map rollercoaster that went the distance. No one was ready for the emotional damage.

Map 1 (Bind): FPX's DOMINANCE

The series kicked off on FPX's map pick, Bind. And oh boy, did they make a statement. From the get-go, FPX looked ICE COLD. Their executes were crisp, their trades were on point. It was like watching a well-oiled machine. Paper Rex just couldn't find an answer. FPX went on an absolutely insane 11-round win streak to close out the map. It was brutal, efficient, and sent a clear message: "We're here to win." PRX fans were probably feeling that big 'L' energy already.

Map 2 (PRX's Pick): The APAC MENTAL Reset

Just when you thought PRX might be tilted into oblivion, they showed why they're legends. On their own map pick, they pulled off a MASSIVE mental reset. This is where their signature chaotic, aggressive style came alive. They bounced back from that demoralizing first loss and dominated FPX, convincingly tying up the series. It was a masterclass in resilience. The message back? "This ain't over."

The series was now tied 1-1, and we were heading to Fracture. The stakes? Through the roof.

Map 3 (Fracture): SUYGETSU Takes Over

Fracture was the turning point. PRX started hot, winning the pistol. But then, Dmitry 'SUYGETSU' Ilyushin decided to open the cheat menu. This man was absolutely UNREAL. His plays on Chamber were out of this world. FPX, led by SUYGETSU's monster performance, took control. The second half was a repeat of Bind's first half—total FPX control. They won 8 out of 10 rounds. It felt like deja vu for PRX, and FPX was now one map away from the championship. The pressure was IMMENSE.

Map 4 (Haven): The PRX Carry Duo SAVES THE DAY

With their backs against the wall on Haven, Paper Rex's star duo said, "Not today." Jinggg and f0rsaken went absolutely SUPER SAIYAN. We're talking highlight-reel play after play. Whether on attack or defense, these two were everywhere, fragging out and single-handedly winning rounds. It was a dominant display of individual talent that forced a fifth and final map. The series was going the DISTANCE! The energy was electric.

Map 5 (Breeze): The Final Showdown

Alright, deep breaths. Decider map on Breeze. This was it. The ultimate test of nerves, strategy, and clutch factor.

  • The Start: FPX takes an early 3-0 lead. Looks familiar, right?

  • The Answer: PRX responds with a FIVE-round streak of their own! The momentum swings wildly.

  • The Stalemate: The next eight rounds are split right down the middle. 4-4. Every round was a heart attack. You couldn't predict who would win.

  • The Final Push: With the score incredibly tight, FPX found another gear on their attack side. They closed out the series, and the tournament, with a SIX-round winning streak. Just an unreal display of composure under the brightest lights.

The Aftermath & Legacy

When the dust settled, FunPlus Phoenix were your Masters Copenhagen champions! They lifted the trophy, took home $200K, and secured crucial points for Champions. It was a legendary team-wide performance.

But let's give it up for Paper Rex. They didn't win, but they won everyone's hearts. They proved APAC was a force to be reckoned with and set the stage for their future dominance. The rivalry was born here, and they'd get their shot at revenge later at Champions Istanbul.

Looking back from 2026, this series is still a gold standard. It had everything:

  • 😱 Insane individual pop-off moments

  • 🧠 Massive momentum swings

  • 💪 Ultimate mental fortitude tests

  • 🌍 Iconic regional rivalry narrative

It's a classic that newer fans should definitely go back and watch. That's the match that truly showed the world how epic and unpredictable VALORANT esports could be. What a time to be alive! GG WP to both squads. Legends, all of them.