NRG defeat Karmine Corp to secure Champions Shanghai playoff berth

NRG defeat Karmine Corp to secure Champions Shanghai playoff berth

Karmine Corp 1:2 NRG

Defending world champions NRG became the second team to qualify for the VALORANT Champions 2026 playoffs after defeating Karmine Corp 2:1 in the Group D winners' match.

Karmine Corp took Ascent, but NRG recovered on Summit before winning the deciding Haven.

Karmine Corp take control on Ascent

KC opened their map pick with a dominant start and raced to a 7:1 lead.

NRG recovered four rounds before halftime to cut the deficit to 5:7, but Karmine Corp regained control after the side switch.

KC eventually closed Ascent 13:7.

SUYGETSU led the map with a 19/9/3 statline.

NRG survive late Summit comeback

NRG responded on their own map pick and led 8:4 at halftime.

The Americans extended the advantage to 10:4, but Karmine Corp refused to let the map go quietly.

KC reduced a 7:12 deficit to 11:12 after winning four consecutive rounds, but NRG stopped the comeback in the final regulation round to win Summit 13:11.

Ethan finished with a 22/15/11 statline.

mada seals Haven

The deciding map followed a similar pattern.

NRG closed the opening half ahead 7:5 and then won four straight rounds after the side switch to establish an 11:5 lead.

Karmine Corp answered with four rounds of their own, but NRG secured the final two rounds to take Haven 13:9.

mada produced the standout performance with 23 kills, 12 deaths and eight assists.

NRG finish Group D with a 2–0 record and advance to the playoffs.

Karmine Corp drop into the decider match against the winner of XLG Esports versus Nongshim RedForce .