Team Liquid’s nAts Likely to Miss VALORANT Masters Toronto Opener Due to Visa Issues
Team Liquid’s Ayaz ‘nAts’ Akhmetshin is expected to miss the opening match of VALORANT Masters Toronto 2025 due to visa delays. Erik ‘penny’ Penny will stand in temporarily as the team prepares to face China’s Bilibili Gaming.
Team Liquid may have to start their VALORANT Masters Toronto 2025 campaign without one of their star players, Ayaz ‘nAts’ Akhmetshin, due to ongoing visa delays. While the Russian player hasn’t been officially ruled out of the tournament, he has shared that the chances of making it in time for the opening match are slim.
In a recent social media update, nAts explained that visa complications are preventing him from traveling to Canada with the team. He mentioned there’s still a possibility his visa could be approved, but most likely not before Liquid’s first game. He added that he remains hopeful to join later and will continue to keep fans updated on the situation.
Liquid nAts Likely to Miss VALORANT Masters Toronto Kick-Off Due to Visa Issues
“Unfortunately due to visa issues, I will not be able to travel to the tournament with the team. There is still a chance that I will get visa but most likely not before the first match. I hope I will be able to show up to the tournament. I will keep everyone updated,” he wrote. “No matter if I will be there or not, Team Liquid will still need your support.”
To fill the gap in the meantime, Canadian player Erik ‘penny’ Penny has been confirmed as a temporary substitute. Penny will join Liquid on stage in Toronto and has expressed his excitement about representing the team, especially in front of a home crowd.
The timing couldn’t be more critical, as Team Liquid’s first match will be against Bilibili Gaming, one of the top Chinese teams known for their strong performances and tactical coordination.
nAts has been a key piece of Team Liquid’s success in recent events, often taking charge as the team’s leading fragger. His smart positioning, consistent aim, and high-impact plays have made him a reliable force in high-pressure moments. His absence, even if temporary, could challenge Liquid’s early momentum in the tournament.
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The VALORANT Masters Toronto kicks off on June 7th, bringing together 12 top teams from around the globe to compete for a shot at the title and qualification for Champions 2025, the most prestigious event in the VALORANT competitive calendar.
Written by: Ashish Jha, India Today Gaming