Nongshim RedForce win VCT 2026: Pacific Kickoff and qualify for Masters Santiago

Nongshim RedForce have won VCT 2026: Pacific Kickoff after taking the Upper Bracket Final and securing first place in the regional qualifier for VALORANT Masters Santiago 2026.

In the decisive match, they defeated Rex Regum Qeon (RRQ) 3:2 in a Best-of-5 series.

The Upper Bracket Final was played in a Best-of-5 format, with the winner earning a direct spot at Masters Santiago 2026 from the Pacific region.

The series went the full distance, with the outcome decided on the fifth map.

Map 1 – Corrode (RRQ win 14:12)

The series started with a very close battle. Both teams traded rounds consistently, showing solid setups on both attack and defense.

RRQ handled the key moments better, especially in low-economy situations. Even though Nongshim RedForce managed to win important pistol rounds, RRQ were more consistent in clutch situations and closed the map 14:12.

Map 2 – Bind (NS RedForce win 13:8)

On Bind, Nongshim RedForce responded confidently. They controlled the pace early, played more disciplined rounds, and limited unnecessary risks.

RRQ tried to close the gap, but NS maintained better economy management and cleaner executions, finishing the map 13:8 to tie the series 1:1.

Map 3 – Haven (NS RedForce win 13:5)

Haven was the most one-sided map of the series. RedForce quickly built momentum and did not allow RRQ much room to recover.

Strong defensive holds and well-timed aggressive plays gave NS a comfortable lead. They closed the map 13:5 and moved ahead 2:1 in the series.

Map 4 – Abyss (RRQ win 13:11)

RRQ bounced back on Abyss and brought the series to a deciding map.

The game was competitive throughout, but RRQ secured crucial pistol rounds and won several key clutches. Nongshim RedForce tried to regain control late in the map, but RRQ held on and took it 13:11, tying the series at 2:2.

Map 5 – Breeze (NS RedForce win 13:7)

The final map was more controlled from Nongshim RedForce. After a competitive start, they managed to stabilize their economy and take control of the game.

RRQ attempted to fight back, but NS were more consistent in mid-round decisions and closing situations. The map ended 13:7 in favor of RedForce, sealing the series 3:2.

With this win, Nongshim RedForce become the first team from the Pacific region to qualify directly for Masters Santiago 2026.

The five-map series showed that the team can stay composed under pressure and close out tight matches when it matters most.

The VALORANT Champions Tour 2026 Pacific KICK-OFF is a major tournament organized by Riot Games as part of the VCT 2026 series. The event will take place in Seoul, South Korea.