The EMEA Masters playoffs have just begun, and they’ve already delivered their first major upset. The Summer Superliga champions, GIANTX Pride, have been knocked out of the tournament in the Round of 16. They fell 2–3 to Unicorns of Love Sexy Edition, who are currently putting together one of the most remarkable runs in the history of the competition. Originally only entering the event due to CGN Esports’ disqualification, Muhammed "Agurin" Kocak's Prime League squad, USE fought their way through the LCQ and then made an incredible comeback in the Swiss Stage, finishing 4–3 after starting with three losses.

Elsewhere, Forsaken — featuring Marek "Humanoid" Brázda in the toplane — were convincingly swept 3–0 by MISA Esports. Karmine Corp Blue claimed a 3–1 victory over Verdant, powered by an outstanding performance from Johnny "Yukino" Dang. Meanwhile, Spain’s fourth seed, Veni Vidi Vici, were eliminated in a clean 0–3 against Geekay Esports.

Defending champions enter the fray

The action continues this Sunday with the two-time defending champions entering the arena for what might be the toughest Round of 16 match yet. Los Ratones will face off against the still-undefeated Vitality.Bee, with the winner set to meet whoever comes out on top between Galions and Barça eSports — two teams surprising everyone given their underwhelming Summer Split form in the Superliga.

On the other side of the bracket, the LFL’s third seed, Gentle Mates, will take on ROSSMANN Centaurs, while Berlin International Gaming — also undefeated so far — clash with Los Heretics, who narrowly survived the Swiss Stage after coming within one loss of early elimination.