The 2025 eChampions League delivered some of the most intense moments in the world of FC esports. Held in Munich on May 28, the competition brought together Europe’s best players for a chance to become the continental champion. Dutch player Emre Yilmaz, representing Real Sociedad, made headlines by winning the tournament and becoming the first player to lift the eChampions League trophy twice.
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How the Tournament Was Set Up
This year’s eChampions League followed a structure similar to the UEFA Champions League, with three main phases: the League Phase, the Knockout Phase, and finally, the Finals.
The League Phase, which took place on May 16 and 17, involved 36 players from across Europe. Each player played six matches against others in this phase. Their aim was to secure enough points to finish in the top 24, ensuring progression to the Knockout Phase.
In the Knockout Phase, held on May 18, the top eight players from the League Phase earned direct qualification to the Round of 16. The other players, ranked 9th to 24th, played additional playoff matches to complete the lineup. From there, it was a straight elimination format, with winners moving forward to the final day in Munich.
The Finals on May 28 featured the final eight players. This was the stage where each match could make or break the dreams of the participants. With so much on the line, players had to be at their very best.
Emre Yilmaz’s Journey to Victory
Emre Yilmaz’s journey in this tournament was nothing short of impressive. In the early stages, he showed his dominance by finishing the League Phase undefeated, with five wins and one draw. This top form placed him in the top eight, meaning he went directly to the Round of 16.
In the Round of 16, Yilmaz faced Spain’s Neat. The game was tense and competitive, but Yilmaz held his nerve and secured a narrow 5-4 victory. This win was a big step forward and set the tone for what was to come.
The tactics that helped @EmreYilmazz80 win the #eChampionsLeague UNDEFEATED! 📊@TheTeamGullit | #FCPro pic.twitter.com/e3TXSppAN5
— EA SPORTS FC Pro (@EASPORTSFCPro) May 28, 2025
Next up in the quarter-finals was Bulgaria’s Alihanlion. Yilmaz’s performance here was nothing short of dominant. He won the match with a crushing score of 8-2, sending a clear message to his competitors that he was in top form.
The semi-finals saw Yilmaz go up against Nicolas99FC, the Argentinian who had already won the LaLiga FC Pro title twice. While Nicolas99FC had shown glimpses of brilliance throughout the tournament, he couldn’t keep up with Yilmaz’s consistent attack and solid defense. Yilmaz came out on top with a convincing 9-4 win, booking his place in the grand final.
The Final: Yilmaz vs. Vejrgang
The final match was one that fans had been waiting for. Emre Yilmaz faced Denmark’s Anders Vejrgang, who plays for Red Bull Leipzig and is the current world champion. Both players had shown great skill throughout the competition, making this clash even more special.
In a match full of energy and tension, it was Yilmaz who edged ahead. He managed to break down Vejrgang’s defense and stayed calm under pressure, winning 2-1. This victory meant that Emre Yilmaz became the first player to win the eChampions League twice, a huge achievement that underlines his status as one of the best in the esports scene.
Team Gullit’s Support and Contribution
Yilmaz’s success was also thanks to his team. He plays under Team Gullit, one of the most respected esports organizations in Europe. Alongside teammates like Levi de Weerd, Gabriel “Young” Freitas, and Chris de Boer, Yilmaz had the support and practice environment needed to stay at the top.
Throughout the tournament, Team Gullit’s players worked together and shared ideas, giving Yilmaz a strong platform to perform. Their preparation and teamwork were key to his success in Munich.
Real Sociedad’s Big European Title
For Real Sociedad, this was also a moment of pride. Although the club has had success in domestic esports competitions like the LaLiga FC Pro Cup, this was their first major European title. Yilmaz’s win put the club’s name on the international esports map and marked an exciting chapter in their esports story.
One of a kind 🏆🏆@EmreYilmazz80 | #eChampionsLeague | #FCPro pic.twitter.com/iYh71YPGqU
— EA SPORTS FC Pro (@EASPORTSFCPro) May 29, 2025
Looking Ahead: World Cup Challenge
With the eChampions League wrapped up, all eyes now turn to the FC Pro World Championship. Scheduled to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from August 7 to 10, this tournament will bring together the world’s best players for a shot at global glory.
Yilmaz’s consistent form and strong mental game make him one of the favorites heading into the World Championship. Fans will be eager to see if he can repeat his success on the world stage and take home another trophy for himself and Real Sociedad.
The eChampions League 2025 was a perfect example of what makes esports so exciting: skill, strategy, and a bit of drama. Emre Yilmaz’s historic win showed the world that with hard work and focus, it’s possible to achieve great things. His second title is not just a personal milestone but also a big moment for his club and the wider esports community.
The journey doesn’t end here. With the World Championship and future competitions on the horizon, players like Yilmaz continue to push the boundaries and show just how competitive and entertaining EA SPORTS FC esports can be.