DRX kept their Kick-Off campaign alive with a hard-earned 2–1 victory over ZETA DIVISION in a tightly contested series. Momentum swung sharply from map to map before DRX’s experience carried them through the decider.
DRX opened the series in dominant fashion on Haven. From the pistol round onward, they dictated the tempo, contesting mid control aggressively and cutting off ZETA’s rotations before executes could develop.
Their attacking half was particularly sharp. Anchors held firm under pressure, and layered utility forced ZETA into uncomfortable late-round fights where they managed to take the first half 9-3. With crisp trading and efficient economy management, DRX closed the opener 13–7, looking firmly in control of the series.
ZETA responded with composure on Bind. Shifting to a more patient approach, they found success by denying DRX early information and punishing overextensions. Their mid-round calls improved significantly, allowing them to isolate duels and convert opening picks into round wins taking the first half 8-4, almost a complete opposite to Haven.
The map remained competitive throughout, but ZETA’s discipline in post-plant situations gave them the edge. Winning several key retakes and clutch scenarios, they secured the 13–7 victory to even the series at 1–1.
With the series on the line, DRX returned to fundamentals on Split. Rather than forcing the pace, they slowed the game down, prioritizing map control and information before committing to site hits, with alot of relying onto HYUNMIN on the solo Waylay.
The turning point came through the second half when DRX shut down a ZETA momentum swing with a critical eco-round conversion. That round broke ZETA’s economy and shifted the match firmly in DRX’s favor.
From there, DRX tightened their attacking setups, limited risks, and closed out the map 13–9 with 8 rounds in a row to secure the 2–1 series win.
With the victory, DRX continue their VCT Pacific run, demonstrating resilience and strategic depth when it mattered most. ZETA DIVISION, despite the loss, showed flashes of high-level coordination that suggest they remain a competitive force looking towards Stage 1 after ending their Kick-Off here.
Valorant Digest 
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