Nongshim RedForce kept their VALORANT Champions 2026 campaign alive on October 1, defeating Xi Lai Gaming 2–0 in Group D’s elimination match. Two closely contested maps ended 13–11 in Nongshim’s favour, sending XLG out of the tournament and setting up a decider against Karmine Corp.
XLG took the early advantage on their pick of Summit, entering halftime 7–5 ahead before extending the lead to 10–6. Nongshim recovered by winning seven of the final eight rounds, with Rb helping turn the map around and Dambi contributing to the closing push.
Francis delivered 25 kills on Chamber, while Rb added 21. Lysoar’s 22 kills and happywei’s 20 kept XLG competitive, but their four-round advantage slipped away.
Sunset offered XLG another chance to respond. The teams reached halftime level at 6–6, and Rarga produced a Sheriff ace after Nongshim won the second-half pistol. Francis answered with decisive Yoru plays, including a four-kill round to bring the score to 10–10. Nongshim then edged the closing exchanges to complete the sweep.
Francis finished the series with 50 kills, 293 ACS and 11 first kills. Rb contributed 36 kills, while happywei led XLG with 38.
Nongshim face Karmine Corp for Group D’s remaining playoff spot
Nongshim will face Karmine Corp in the Group D decider on October 3, with the best-of-three scheduled for 5:30 PM IST. The winner advances to the playoffs, while the loser’s Champions campaign ends.
Surviving two narrow maps against XLG gives Nongshim another opportunity to progress. They must now turn that recovery into one more series victory to reach the knockout stage.