NRG secured their place in the VALORANT Champions 2026 playoffs on September 29, recovering from a map down to defeat Karmine Corp 2–1 in Group D’s winners’ match. The victory followed their opening sweep of Nongshim RedForce, completing an unbeaten run through the group’s upper bracket.
Karmine Corp struck first on their pick of Ascent. After taking a 7–5 halftime lead, KC allowed NRG just two rounds in the second half to close out a 13–7 victory. SUYGETSU led the way with 19 kills against nine deaths, putting his team one map from qualification.
NRG responded on Summit, building an 8–4 advantage before KC fought back after the break. Despite the narrowing margin, NRG held on for a 13–11 win to force Haven.
The deciding map saw NRG take a 7–5 halftime lead before completing the comeback with a 13–9 victory. mada finished as the series’ leading fragger with 47 kills, while Ethan contributed 44 kills and 33 assists across the three maps.
Ka rmine Corp await Xi Lai Gaming or Nongshim RedForce in Group D decider
Karmine Corp still have another route to the playoffs. They will face the winner of the October 1 elimination match between Xi Lai Gaming and Nongshim RedForce in the Group D decider on October 3.
A Xi Lai Gaming victory would set up a rematch of KC’s tournament opener, which the EMEA side won 2–0. If Nongshim advance, the decider would bring together the two teams beaten by NRG.
The winner will claim Group D’s remaining playoff berth alongside NRG, while the loser exits Champions. For KC, an opening-map victory offered a glimpse of qualification, but their next series will leave no room for another defeat.