What to expect from Wildcard v. Virtus.pro

Wildcard will face off against Virtus.pro in their 1-1 match tomorrow after a close loss to The MongolZ. This match will serve as an excellent test for Wildcard as VP are a top-ten team with flaws the NA hopefuls could exploit as they aim for playoffs at Cluj-Napoca 2025. While the Russian squad may have a slight edge, there are signs Wildcard have what it takes to secure a close win tomorrow.

The right cards in the deck

Overall, Wildcard has had a good tournament in my eyes as I did not expect them to beat The MongolZ. Considering they forced the team to double digits on both maps they should feel good especially as there are clear areas to improve.

• The team can't afford JBa going missing again

• phzy admitted their CT-sides lacked conviction and commitment, let's fix that

• susp and phzy continue to impress

The Russian Bear

In my mind, VP are far less intimidating for a team like Wildcard than many would expect. While they have the firepower and pedigree to win, VP has been playing very scrappy games at Cluj-Napoca thus far. With the majority of their maps going to the limit that opens up opportunities for Wildcard to sneak maps if they stay competitive.

• Such a close game against COL suggests Wildcard have the advantage

• FL4MUS is having a tough tournament

• The majority of VP's maps at the event have been exceedingly close

Previous Matchups

Last time Wildcard faced Virtus.pro, Wildcard managed a 2-1 victory although this was against the Dzhami "Jame" Ali-led iteration of the team.

Likely Vetoes

As always, these vetoes come with the caveat that they are highly speculative as they depend on whether Wildcard, as the higher-ranked team, chooses to pick first or ban last. We will assume they ban last.

• VP ban Nuke (Permaban)

• Wildcard ban Train (Played once, VP are willing to play it)

• VP pick Dust2 (67% Winrate)

• Wildcard pick Inferno (56% Winrate, strong map at this event)

• VP ban Anubis (0% Winrate Δ between teams)

• Wildcard ban Mirage (33% Winrate, 3 maps played)

• Ancient as potential decider

Analysis: Wildcard can feel pretty good if this potential veto ends up coming true, as the team have avoided any permabans or maps they don't play frequently. I think the biggest chance for Wildcard to steal a map here is on Inferno so we've seen they can play tier-one teams on it as evidenced by a great showing against The MongolZ today alongside a close overtime loss to Liquid and a one-sided win over FURIA at IEM Katowice.

Wildcard will take on Virtus.pro tomorrow at 06:00AM.