Match Prediction: Nongshim RedForce - Paper Rex | VALORANT

The match between Nongshim RedForce and Paper Rex in the Grand Final of VALORANT Masters Santiago 2026 will determine the champion of the tournament. The series will be played in a Best-of-5 format, with the winner lifting the Masters trophy and claiming the largest share of the $1,000,000 prize pool.

The event takes place in Santiago, Chile, bringing together the best teams from the major competitive regions after weeks of intense competition.

Both teams reached the final through different playoff paths.

Nongshim RedForce secured their place in the championship match through the upper bracket, defeating strong opponents and maintaining an undefeated playoff run. Their victory over NRG in the upper bracket ensured direct qualification to the grand final.

Paper Rex, meanwhile, had to fight through the lower bracket after an earlier playoff loss. The Pacific squad survived several elimination matches and ultimately defeated NRG 3–1 in the Lower Bracket Final to reach the grand final.

Bookmakers Offers For The Match Nongshim RedForce vs Paper Rex

According to early bookmaker expectations, the upcoming series is projected to be extremely competitive. Nongshim RedForce are often listed as slight favorites due to their consistent performances throughout the playoffs and their undefeated run in the upper bracket.

Paper Rex, however, come into the final with strong momentum after multiple elimination victories. Teams that arrive from the lower bracket often gain additional confidence and map practice, which can become a decisive factor in long Best-of-5 series.

Nongshim RedForce vs Paper Rex Line-Ups

Both teams are expected to field their full starting rosters for the championship series.

Nongshim RedForce rely on a lineup known for disciplined teamplay, strong defensive coordination, and controlled mid-round decision-making. Their ability to manage the tempo of the match and adapt to opponents has been one of the key factors behind their undefeated playoff run.

Paper Rex will once again depend on their explosive roster featuring f0rsakeN, Jinggg, something, d4v41, and invy. The team is widely recognized for its aggressive playstyle and constant pressure across the map, often overwhelming opponents through fast executes and confident duels.

Nongshim RedForce Form & Performance

​Nongshim RedForce have looked extremely stable throughout the playoff stage. Their victory against NRG in the upper bracket demonstrated their ability to shut down aggressive teams through structured setups and well-timed rotations.

The team’s biggest strength lies in discipline and coordination. Even in difficult rounds, Nongshim often recover thanks to strong communication and effective utility usage. Their controlled pace frequently forces opponents into uncomfortable situations.

Paper Rex Form & Performance

​Paper Rex arrive to the grand final with strong momentum after an impressive lower-bracket run. The team eliminated several opponents and secured a decisive victory over NRG in the Lower Bracket Final to reach the championship match.

Their aggressive and unpredictable playstyle often allows them to flip rounds quickly. When Paper Rex gain early momentum and begin winning opening duels, they can overwhelm opponents with fast site executions and constant map pressure.

However, their high-risk style can also lead to mistakes against disciplined teams capable of punishing over-aggression.

Nongshim RedForce vs Paper Rex Head-To-Head

The grand final is particularly intriguing because the teams have not frequently faced each other in international playoff matches. Both squads demonstrated strong performances throughout the tournament, which makes the outcome of the series difficult to predict.

With Nongshim RedForce entering as the undefeated upper-bracket finalist and Paper Rex arriving with strong momentum from the lower bracket, the clash of styles could lead to a long and dramatic Best-of-5 series.

Best Pick For Match Nongshim RedForce vs Paper Rex

This matchup features two teams with very different approaches to the game. Nongshim RedForce rely on structured strategies, disciplined setups, and calculated mid-round decisions.

Paper Rex, on the other hand, possess explosive individual skill and a playstyle capable of disrupting even the most organized opponents.

If Nongshim RedForce manage to slow down the pace of the game and punish risky plays, they could maintain their undefeated playoff run. However, if Paper Rex establish early momentum and dictate the tempo of the match, the series could quickly become chaotic and extremely competitive.

Prediction: Nongshim RedForce win.