July 18 brings action across all three VCT regions — EMEA, Pacific, and China. We’ve analyzed every match of the day, including tier-2 competitions, and picked the 5 smartest bets based on current form, meta, and roster insights.

DRX vs Nongshim RedForce — DRX to Win (1.42)
DRX remain one of the top Pacific teams, with experience and a deep map pool. After their recent run at EWC 2025, they’ve looked more cohesive, especially with their new player. Nongshim is a rising squad but still lacks consistency. DRX should take this comfortably.

JD Gaming vs Bilibili Gaming — Total Maps Over 2.5 (2.00)
While BLG are the favorites on paper, both teams have been inconsistent lately. Their last head-to-head ended 2:1 in favor of BLG, and a close contest is likely again. We expect this match to go the distance — at least three maps.

BOOM Esports vs T1 — BOOM to Win (2.50)
T1 are tournament favorites, but BOOM are dangerous underdogs who thrive in chaotic matches. BOOM has already surprised several top teams this VCT season. T1 , meanwhile, looked shaky in their 2:0 loss to Paper Rex in their Pacific Stage 2 opener. Risky pick — but with high value.

Team Heretics vs BBL Esports — Total Maps Over 2.5 (1.88)
BBL impressed at EWC 2025 and are now taken more seriously in the EMEA region. Though Team Heretics defeated them 2:0 at that event, BBL’s form and prep suggest they can push this series further. The current map pool rotation also plays to their strengths.

Fnatic vs Karmine Corp — Exact Score 2:0 Fnatic (2.05)
Fnatic is on another level in the EMEA region, rivaled only by Team Heretics . While Karmine Corp did make playoffs at EWC 2025, they still struggle with consistency and map control. Fnatic should take this cleanly 2:0.