VCT playoffs: Nongshim RedForce and NRG advance in Pacific and Americas

The VCT Pacific Stage 2 playoffs have reached a decisive phase in Busan. Nongshim RedForce secured a major upset by defeating Gen. G 2-1 in the upper semifinal, moving them within one best-of-three victory of qualifying for VALORANT Champions 2026 in Shanghai. Global Esports also advanced to the Upper Final after a 2-0 victory over VARREL, setting up a matchup against Nongshim RedForce. High-profile organizations including Paper Rex, T1, and KIWOOM DRX have been pushed into the lower bracket.

In the VCT Americas Stage 2 playoffs, NRG and 100 Thieves have advanced to the upper final in São Paulo. NRG secured a 2-1 series victory against LOUD, highlighted by a strong performance from brawk. 100 Thieves also secured their spot in the next round, moving both teams closer to qualification for the Champions tournament.