There’s a certain kind of energy that only South African esports brings. It’s loud. It’s fast. And it doesn’t blink.

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Over the course of three action-packed stages, eight South African Call of Duty: Mobile teams fought to earn their place at the Carry1st Africa Cup 2025 Grand Finals. In the end, ParadoX emerged as the South African champion in a brutal face-off with NATO Gaming AF.

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ParadoX’s triumph not only earned them the national title but also the honor of representing South Africa on the continental stage in Lagos. Here’s how it all went down, from group stage upsets to a thrilling Grand Final finish.

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Tournament Overview

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The South African qualifier kicked off with a round-robin group stage from June 27–29, which set the tone and seeding for the playoffs. Each match was a best-of-five series featuring Call of Duty: Mobile’s core competitive modes: Hardpoint, Search & Destroy, and Control, following official rules and settings. The group stage quickly revealed the pecking order among the teams.

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Next Generation dominated Group A with a perfect 3–0 match record, not dropping a single map, while ParadoX similarly went undefeated atop Group B. Chasing behind the group leaders were Velentzas Greek Gnomes and NATO Gaming AF, each finishing 2–1 to secure second place in their respective groups. Meanwhile, VENGEANCE ESPORTS and MISCHIEFSHOGUN managed one win apiece, and Arcana and CLUTCH6 struggled without a single match win, exposing a gap between them and the frontrunners. (Arcana and CLUTCH6 both went 0–3 in their groups, foreshadowing an uphill battle ahead.)

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All eight teams advanced into the playoff bracket; a double-elimination gauntlet scheduled across July 5–6, with the Grand Finale set to be played in person on July 13. The stakes were especially high: not only was a championship on the line, but the top two teams earned a spot in the qualifier’s LAN Grand Finale at the African Gaming Championship event in Cape Town. With travel and accommodations covered, teams were extra motivated to grab one of those two spots and compete under the spotlight on stage. The playoff seeding was based on group results, pitting top seeds against lower seeds in the quarterfinals. This format set the stage for a dramatic showdown among South Africa’s best, with every map crucial in the journey toward the title.

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Winners Bracket Recap

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Winners Round 1 (Quarterfinals)

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The playoffs opened with four quarterfinal matches, and the higher-seeded favorites asserted their dominance early. Next Generation (#1 seed) faced Arcana (#8), and Next Gen wasted no time by sweeping Arcana 3–0. The group A juggernaut outplayed Arcana in every mode, sending the underdogs to the lower bracket in a hurry.

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On the next match, ParadoX (#2) delivered a similarly one-sided 3–0 victory over CLUTCH6 (#7). ParadoX’s coordination and gunskill were on full display as they made quick work of CLUTCH6. Over in the third quarterfinal, Velentzas Greek Gnomes (#3) took on MISCHIEFSHOGUN (#6). Velentzas, coming off a strong group stage, continued their momentum with a clean 3–0 sweep, knocking MISCHIEFSHOGUN down to the lower bracket.

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Finally, NATO Gaming AF (#4) squared off against VENGEANCE ESPORTS (#5) in what many anticipated to be a tight matchup. NATO, however, came out firing on all cylinders and blanked VENGEANCE 3–0 as well. It was a statement win for NATO, proving they were a cut above their rivals that day. Impressively, all four quarterfinal series ended 3–0; the top seeds advanced with emphatic sweeps across the board. The favorites had held serve, and no upsets emerged in Round 1 – but the tournament was just heating up.

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Winners Round 2 (Semifinals)

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In the upper bracket semifinals, the remaining four teams faced their toughest tests yet. The first matchup saw Next Generation vs. NATO Gaming AF, a clash between the Group A and Group B leaders. Next Generation started strong and took the early maps, but NATO managed to snatch one map, a feat considering Next Gen’s previously flawless run.

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Ultimately, Next Generation’s experience and objective control carried them to a 3–1 victory. They secured a spot in the winners' final, though NATO’s ability to take a map showed that cracks weren’t entirely absent in Next Gen’s armor. On the other side of the bracket, ParadoX met Velentzas' Greek Gnomes. ParadoX came in with confidence from their undefeated streak, and they continued their dominant form with a 3–0 sweep of Velentzas. The Gnomes, who had looked solid until this point, suddenly had no answers for ParadoX’s aggression and map control. With that win, ParadoX punched their ticket to the winners' final as well. The semifinal results meant the two pre-tournament favorites – Next Generation and ParadoX – were set to collide next, while NATO and Velentzas would have to battle their way through the looming lower bracket.

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Winners Final (Round 3)

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The upper bracket final delivered the heavyweight showdown everyone was waiting for: Next Generation vs. ParadoX; the #1 seed versus the #2 seed, both undefeated so far. The tension was palpable as these titans faced off for a direct slot in the Grand Final. ParadoX came out with a point to prove.

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From the first Hardpoint, their rotations were on point and gunfights crisp, allowing them to take an early lead. Next Generation fought back in Search & Destroy with clever strategies, but ParadoX’s clutch plays turned the tide in key rounds. After a back-and-forth tussle, ParadoX pulled off a 3–1 victory, handing Next Generation their first match loss of the entire event.

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It was yet another statement win: ParadoX showed they could beat the only other undefeated team and do so convincingly. By winning the winners final, ParadoX earned their place in the Grand Final, sitting pretty with no series losses. Next Generation, meanwhile, was knocked down to the lower bracket final. For the first time in the tournament, Next Gen had their backs against the wall, needing to fight through one more match if they hoped for a rematch against ParadoX in the final.

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Lower Bracket Recap

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Lower Bracket Round 1

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As the winners bracket was unfolding, the lower bracket became the last refuge for teams hanging onto their tournament lives. In the Lower Round 1 (also known as the quarterfinal elimination round), four teams who lost in the first round got a second chance. Arcana and CLUTCH6, both winless so far, were determined to show they had more fight in them. Arcana went up against VENGEANCE ESPORTS (who had fallen from the upper bracket), while CLUTCH6 faced MISCHIEFSHOGUN. Unfortunately for the underdogs, experience prevailed.

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VENGEANCE ESPORTS swept Arcana 3–0, eliminating Arcana from the tournament. Arcana’s run ended with a 0–4 overall match record – a tough outing, but also a valuable learning experience gained from facing top-tier opponents. Over in the other match, MISCHIEFSHOGUN defeated CLUTCH6 3–0, knocking out CLUTCH6. Mischief’s squad looked composed and hungry, exploiting CLUTCH6’s mistakes and never letting them get into the game. Both Arcana and CLUTCH6 bowed out with 7th/8th place finishes, having been unable to turn their fortunes around. For VENGEANCE and MISCHIEFSHOGUN, however, the journey continued, with even tougher challenges looming ahead.

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Lower Bracket Round 2

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Lower Round 2 brought two high-stakes elimination matches as the last six teams continued to scrap for survival. The first series featured Velentzas Greek Gnomes vs. VENGEANCE ESPORTS. Velentzas had dropped from the upper semis and were looking to rebound, whereas VENGEANCE had just gained some confidence from their sweep over Arcana. In a result that stunned some spectators, VENGEANCE ESPORTS upset Velentzas with a 3–0 sweep.

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The Gnomes, who had been semifinalists in the winners bracket, suddenly found themselves out of the tournament entirely. It was a surprising exit for Velentzas, who had shown promise in groups but couldn’t regain their footing in the lower bracket. They exited with a 5th/6th place finish, a disappointing end for a team that earlier looked like a potential finalist. Credit goes to VENGEANCE for coming into this match with fire; they executed their game plan perfectly, perhaps catching Velentzas off guard with aggressive plays and superior teamwork.

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Meanwhile, the other Lower Round 2 matchup pitted NATO Gaming AF vs. MISCHIEFSHOGUN. NATO, still reeling from the upper bracket loss to Next Gen, seemed more focused than ever. MISCHIEFSHOGUN had some momentum from their win over CLUTCH6, but NATO proved to be on another level. NATO swept MISCHIEFSHOGUN 3–0 in decisive fashion, demonstrating that they were not going to let the earlier setback define them. NATO’s gunfights were sharper and their strategy more refined, as they systematically took apart MISCHIEF across all three maps. With that loss, MISCHIEFSHOGUN was eliminated, finishing in 5th/6th place alongside Velentzas.

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For NATO and VENGEANCE, these victories meant moving one step closer to the Grand Final – but only one of them would get the chance to advance further.

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Lower Bracket Round 3 (Semifinal)

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The Lower Bracket Semifinal was an elimination match between NATO Gaming AF and VENGEANCE ESPORTS, two teams that had built up serious momentum in the lower bracket. By this stage, both squads had proved their resilience: NATO was on a redemption arc after early defeat, and VENGEANCE was defying expectations with their deep run. The series that unfolded was hard-fought. VENGEANCE came out swinging and actually managed to take a map off NATO; a Search & Destroy where their strategies clicked and they caught NATO off balance.

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But NATO adapted quickly in the other game modes. Their rotations in Hardpoint were faster, and their execution in Control was more clinical. In the end, NATO secured a 3–1 victory over VENGEANCE. With that result, VENGEANCE’s inspiring run came to an end with a commendable 4th-place finish. From a middling group stage performance to nearly cracking the top three, VENGEANCE had shown serious grit. NATO, on the other hand, moved on to the Lower Final, where a familiar foe was waiting.

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Lower Bracket Final (Round 4)

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In the Lower Bracket Final, NATO Gaming AF found themselves in a rematch against Next Generation. These two had met in the winners bracket semifinal earlier, where Next Gen prevailed 3–1. But now the stakes were do-or-die: a Grand Final berth on the line, and NATO was a team transformed through the lower bracket grind.

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What followed was arguably the most thrilling series of the tournament. Next Generation, determined to prove their earlier dominance was no fluke, came out strong and took the first map. NATO responded in kind on the next map, showing that they had studied Next Gen’s tactics and were ready to adapt. The teams traded blows in subsequent games, each showcasing moments of brilliance. Next Gen’s slaying power versus NATO’s strategic plays made for a classic clash of styles. It all came down to a decisive Game 5 in this best-of-5.

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In the end, NATO Gaming AF edged out Next Generation 3–2 in the series, clinching the win in dramatic fashion. It was a nail-biter finish fitting of two elite teams. The result sent NATO to the Grand Final and knocked Next Generation out in third place. For Next Gen, it was a bitter end to a campaign that had started so promisingly; undefeated in groups and deep into playoffs, yet falling just short of the Grand Final.

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NATO, meanwhile, earned their Grand Final spot the hard way, battling all the way through the lower bracket. Their celebration was brief, however, as one final challenge remained: the undefeated ParadoX.

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Grand Final: ParadoX vs. NATO

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The Grand Final was set as a best-of-7 showdown between ParadoX (coming from the upper bracket without a series loss) and NATO Gaming AF (fresh from their heroic lower bracket run). Because ParadoX had not lost a match, the format gave them a one-map advantage to start the Grand Final; meaning ParadoX needed four map wins to clinch the title, while NATO would need four wins plus an extra series reset to overcome the advantage.

With the live audience at the Cape Town LAN event watching intently, ParadoX seemed eager to prove that their earlier win over NATO was no accident. They came out on fire, carrying over the confidence from their unbeaten streak. ParadoX wasted no time and swept through the Grand Final, ultimately winning 4–0 (including the map advantage) in an emphatic performance.

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Each game showcased ParadoX’s superiority in teamwork and tactics. They were always one step ahead, whether it was securing early hill control in Hardpoint or executing perfect trades in Search & Destroy.

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When the dust settled, ParadoX stood as the South African champions. They had completed an incredible run through the qualifier, dropping only a single map in total across groups and playoffs. As for NATO Gaming AF, they finished as the respected runners-up. Although they couldn’t crack ParadoX in the final, NATO had won the hearts of fans with their resilience and clutch performances throughout the lower bracket. In the end, South Africa’s qualifier wrapped up with a clear message: ParadoX is the team to beat, but NATO and the others aren’t far behind in pushing the competitive scene to new heights.

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Meet the Teams

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ParadoX

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ParadoX came into this qualifier as a highly touted squad and absolutely lived up to the hype. Their performance was nothing short of dominant. In the group stage, ParadoX topped Group B with an unblemished record, mowing down each opponent 3–0. The trend continued in playoffs; they didn’t drop a map until the winners' final, where Next Generation took one off them. ParadoX quickly shrugged that off and never lost another. This squad displayed remarkable consistency and cohesion; every player knew their role and executed it flawlessly. By the time they reached the Grand Final, ParadoX looked invincible. They swept NATO and clinched the championship with a perfect 4–0 series. Such a run cements ParadoX as the team to beat in South Africa’s CODM scene. They now carry the nation’s hopes as they head to the Africa Cup finals in Lagos, brimming with confidence from their nearly flawless qualifier run.

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NATO Gaming AF

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NATO Gaming AF proved to be the heart and soul team of this qualifier, showing incredible resilience and clutch factor. They had a solid start by finishing second in Group B (only losing to ParadoX there), which earned them a decent seed. In the upper bracket, NATO swept VENGEANCE and then gave Next Generation a fight, taking a map off them even in defeat. But it was NATO’s lower-bracket run that really defined their campaign. Faced with elimination, they shifted into another gear: sweeping MISCHIEFSHOGUN, taking down VENGEANCE, and then avenging their earlier loss by defeating Next Generation in that epic 3–2 lower final. NATO showed adaptability, learning from each loss and coming back stronger. Although ParadoX proved a step too far in the end, NATO’s runner-up finish is nothing to scoff at. They fell just short of the title, but their journey was nothing short of inspirational.

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Next Generation

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Next Generation started this tournament like a house on fire and looked destined for greatness before stumbling at the penultimate hurdle. This squad dominated Group A, going 3–0 in matches and 9–0 in maps. Their aggressive playstyle and sharp gun skills left their early opponents in the dust. In the playoffs, Next Gen continued their form by sweeping Arcana and then beating NATO 3–1 in the upper semis. At that point, many pegged them as potential champions. However, things took a turn in the winners' final against ParadoX. Next Generation couldn’t keep up with ParadoX’s tactics and suffered their first loss, 1–3. That seemed to rattle their confidence slightly. They got a second chance in the lower final but faced a surging NATO hungry for revenge. Next Gen fought bravely in that five-game thriller, but ultimately fell 2–3, ending their run in third place. It was a tough pill to swallow for a team that hadn’t tasted defeat until the final day. Despite the disappointing finish, Next Generation shouldn’t be underestimated. They showed for the majority of the event that they can be the top team on any given day.

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VENGEANCE ESPORTS

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VENGEANCE ESPORTS had a rollercoaster ride of a tournament, full of ups and downs. Their group stage was rocky; they went 1–2 in Group A, only managing a win against the last-place team. That result put them in a lower seed for playoffs, and many wondered if VENGEANCE would make an early exit. But once in the elimination bracket, this team came alive. After a quick upper bracket loss to NATO, VENGEANCE regrouped in the lower bracket. They confidently swept Arcana 3–0 to stay alive, which seemed to ignite their self-belief. The highlight of their run came next: a stunning 3–0 upset over Velentzas Greek Gnomes. VENGEANCE looked like a completely different team from that match onward: aggressive, coordinated, and fearless. Finishing 4th place is a commendable achievement for a team that started slow. VENGEANCE ESPORTS showcased that on their best day, they can hang with the top teams.

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Velentzas Greek Gnomes

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Velentzas Greek Gnomes came into the qualifier as a bit of a wildcard team with a memorable name. They quickly proved in the group stage that they were more than just a quirky moniker, finishing 2–1 in Group A and taking the second seed. Their coordinated gameplay and smart use of utility had others on notice. Entering the playoffs, Velentzas confidently swept MISCHIEFSHOGUN in the quarterfinal, but then hit a brick wall against ParadoX in the upper semis, where they lost 0–3. Dropping to the lower bracket, the Gnomes still had a chance to go far, but they ran into a fired-up VENGEANCE squad. In one of the bracket’s surprises, Velentzas got swept 0–3 by VENGEANCE, ending their run in a tie for 5th/6th place. It was an abrupt and disappointing exit for a team that had shown top-four potential. With better preparation for those high-pressure scenarios, Velentzas could certainly bounce back in future tournaments.

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MISCHIEFSHOGUN

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MISCHIEFSHOGUN (a name as intimidating as it is unusual) had a challenging path through the qualifier, ultimately finishing in 5th/6th place. In the group stage, they managed a 1–2 record in Group B, only securing a win against the last-place Arcana. Though they made the playoffs as a lower seed, MISCHIEFSHOGUN were immediately thrown against strong opponents. The upper bracket saw them swept by Velentzas 0–3, which dropped them into the do-or-die lower side. To their credit, the team didn’t bow out quietly. Throughout the event, MISCHIEFSHOGUN displayed flashes of skill. They generally struggled against the heavyweights, but in moments where their coordination clicked, they looked competitive. The key takeaway for them is consistency and experience. Now that they’ve faced the region’s best, they have a benchmark for the level they need to reach. With more practice and perhaps some strategic revamps, MISCHIEFSHOGUN can aim to break into the upper echelon next time.

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Arcana

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Arcana’s journey in the South African qualifier was undoubtedly rough, as they ended winless and bowed out in 7th/8th place. Despite those early group stage setbacks, they still advanced to the playoffs. There was a sense that maybe Arcana could turn things around in the elimination bracket with a fresh start. Unfortunately for Arcana, VENGEANCE was in no mood for an upset. Arcana lost 0–3 and was eliminated without having taken a single map throughout the entire competition. It was a tough outing, but it’s important to highlight that Arcana gained invaluable experience here. Every map they played was against one of the top teams in the region, effectively a trial by fire. The upside for Arcana is that the only way from here is up. With dedicated practice and by analyzing what the top squads did differently, Arcana’s players can learn and improve.

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CLUTCH6

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CLUTCH6 had a similarly challenging experience, also finishing in 7th/8th place alongside Arcana. In Group A, CLUTCH6 went 0–3, unable to crack the code against the likes of Next Generation, Velentzas, and VENGEANCE. That said, the team showed a lot of heart by not giving up even when matches were lopsided. They kept trying new approaches each game, hoping to find something that worked. It would be easy to look at the scores and dismiss CLUTCH6, but the truth is this experience could be crucial for the team’s growth. Playing against the top teams exposed the areas where CLUTCH6 needs to level up, be it map knowledge, quicker rotations, or tighter teamwork. Every round they scraped through provided lessons. To their credit, the players maintained their composure and positive attitude even in tough losses, which speaks to their character. If CLUTCH6 can maintain that determination and grind out improvements in scrimmages, there’s no reason they can’t return as a stronger unit.

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Road to Lagos: What’s Next?

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With the South African qualifier now in the books, Team ParadoX will advance to the Carry1st Africa Cup 2025 Grand Finals in Lagos, Nigeria on August 30–31, 2025. There, they will face off against the champion squads from other regional qualifiers – including powerhouses from North Africa, Uganda, Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, and a wildcard team in a clash to determine Africa’s best CODM team.

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For ParadoX, carrying the momentum of their South African triumph into the finals will be key. Interestingly, the incumbent Africa Cup champions from last year (Noxious Gaming) were a South African team, so ParadoX will be fighting not just for themselves but to keep the continental crown in South Africa for another year. They’ve proven locally that they are a force to be reckoned with; the Lagos event will test if they can replicate that success against the other regional titans.

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The competition will be fierce – champions from across Africa will bring their A-game – but ParadoX’s blend of skill, strategy, and composure could very well lead them to glory. The South African Call of Duty: Mobile community can be proud of what was achieved here: a thrilling qualifier that showcased the region’s talent and set the stage for an exciting finale. Up next on the Africa Cup calendar: the Kenya regional qualifiers, as the road to Lagos nears its end and the final lineup of finalists is decided!

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