Chelsea and their club representative Harris Riaz won the inaugural Emirates FA Cup gaming tournament, which took place at Wembley Stadium connected by EE on Saturday.
Having received almost 9,000 competition entries, 64 lucky gamers were randomly selected to represent their club and compete for glory.
Compered by Colin Murray the event had unpredictability, fierce competition and gaming prowess.
The early rounds were played in iconic locations around Wembley, such as the changing rooms and the players’ tunnel.
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 82ft screens as their monitors.
Harris Riaz lifts the Emirates FA Cup
Popular ex-player, pundit and gaming fan Jermaine Jenas, and a number of professional gamers and YouTube stars (AJ3, Behzinga, CapgunTom, Theo Baker, Miniminter and Reev), welcomed the participants and shared tips and tricks.
Riaz was not only crowned the inaugural champion, but he also lifted the Emirates FA Cup and was awarded a personalised ‘Every Gamer’s Adventure’ PlayStation 4 console. Harris will attend the Emirates FA Cup Final between Crystal Palace and Manchester United on Saturday 21 May as a special guest of The FA.
Riaz said: “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.”
Murray added: “This was an historic moment for the Emirates FA Cup; 64 gamers going on an adventure like never 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.”
The one-day event replicated the fixtures from this season’s third round with 64 gamers and 32 matches kicking-off the proceedings. The gamers played FIFA 16 on PlayStation 4 consoles.
