The Coupe des Étoiles final is nearing, featuring the BDS Valkyries, last year’s runners-up. This physical event, hosted at PGW on October 22, marks a significant moment in women’s esports, drawing 2,000 fans. Despite a rocky start, BDS Valkyries has performed impressively in the main event. Retaining three core players and adding experienced newcomers, they aim to challenge favorites G2 Hel. The upcoming match promises excitement and intense competition as the teams vie for the championship.
The Coupe des Étoiles (CDE) final is just around the corner, intensifying the excitement in the esports community. The women’s esports scene is rapidly evolving, but a physical final in front of 2,000 live spectators remains a rarity. With anticipation building, it’s essential to spotlight the two finalist teams who will clash for the coveted title at PGW on October 22. First up, let’s delve into the story of BDS Valkyries, last year’s runners-up.
A Climb to Glory
To reach this significant final, BDS Valkyries has navigated a challenging path. Historically recognized as one of the top teams in France’s women’s esports landscape, doubts about their performance have begun to surface as they approach the finish line. A deeper dive into their journey reveals a lack of championship titles, apart from a victory in Closed Qualifiers during the SeaPandas era. Throughout this year’s 4 Qualifiers for the CDE, BDS Valkyries has been consistently competitive but fell short of clinching a win, notably losing twice to G2 Hel in the finals. In terms of circuit points, they secured third place with 1600 points, lagging behind Solary Academy (1700 points) and a noteworthy G2 Hel (2100 points). Prior to the Main Event, it seemed uncertain whether Evalunna and her teammates would make it to the grand final.
However, BDS Valkyries turned the tide during the Main Event, showcasing remarkable performances with convincing 2-0 victories against GameWard Astrals and Solary Academy in the semi-finals. Their resurgence is impressive, and despite being labeled underdogs this year, they remain ready to surprise their opponents.
A Reformed Lineup in 2023
This year, BDS Valkyries maintains a core of three players from last year’s team, whose experience could be crucial, especially since they last faced off at PGW under similar circumstances. While Sea (TOP) and Evalunna (SUPP) have retained their positions, Sashy (JUNGLE) has undergone a significant change, switching roles from MID to her new role while adopting the name Sashy from her previous alias, Ender. This transition comes after the departure of Sha, their former midlaner, who has joined G2 Hel, creating a unique dynamic between these former teammates.
The team has also welcomed two German newcomers: Aly (Jungle) and Nenris (ADC). Both players bring years of experience to the table, having participated in the women’s scene since 2019. Although they may not yet be accustomed to the high stakes of PGW, their recent performances suggest they can handle the pressure on game day, as showcased by their ADC’s impressive pentakill in the semi-final against Solary Academy.
Despite the loss of a midlane player to their rivals, BDS Valkyries are positioned well to challenge the favorites in the final. Stay tuned for the start of the action on Tuesday!
Following strong showings in the quarter-finals, it’s time for the competitors to advance! In the semi-finals, the BDS Valkyries aim to overcome the Solary Académie, while on the opposite side, GO Aurora will seek to defend its title against the formidable G2 Hel!