Chelsea Wins First Gaming FA Cup Crown
Chelsea and club representative Harris Riaz won the inaugural Emirates FA Cup gaming tournament, which took place at Wembley Stadium connected by EE on Saturday 7th May.
Following almost 9,000 competition entries, 64 gamers were randomly selected to represent their club and compete.
Harris (and Chelsea) went on to a 3-1 victory over Soufiane Kazane (Southampton) in the final, with the pair perched in the centre circle, using the 82 foot screens as their screen for victory.
Compered by sports presenter, Colin Murray, the early rounds were played in locations around the stadium such as the changing rooms and the players’ tunnel, with the two finalists virtually battling it out on Wembley Stadium’s 82 foot screens as they sat in the centre circle.
Popular ex-player, pundit and gaming fan Jermaine Jenas, and a number of professional gamers and YouTube stars welcomed the gaming participants, sharing tips and tricks on the day as they commenced the ultimate gaming adventure.
The overall winner, Harris Riaz, not only secured the crown the inaugural champion, but also lifted The Emirates FA Cup and awarded a personalised ‘Every Gamer’s Adventure’ PlayStation 4 console. Harris will be attending the Emirates FA Cup Final on 21st May as a special guest of The FA.
Sports presenter and host of the Every Gamer’s Adventure inaugural gaming tournament, Colin Murray, commented: “Today was an historic moment for The Emirates FA Cup – 64 gamers going on an adventure like never seen before. Chelsea may have had a disappointing domestic season, but at least they’ve picked up some silverware this year, and they have Harris to thank.”
“The passion showed by the players today, mirrored that of those who play on the pitch. A memorable adventure well worth taking.”
Tournament champion, Harris Riaz representing Chelsea, delightfully commented: “It was an honour and a dream to represent Chelsea at the Every Gamers Adventure tournament. The atmosphere was electric which really helped me with my performance on the pitch. Lifting The Emirates FA Cup at Wembley Stadium was an adventure I’ll never forget.”
The one-day event replicated the fixtures from this year’s third round with 64 gamers and 32 matches kicking-off the proceedings. The gamers played FIFA 16 on PlayStation 4 consoles.
