Paper Rex Survive Team Liquid Fightback to Win Opening Valorant Champions Shanghai Contest
Paper Rex opened Valorant Champions Shanghai 2026 with a 2-1 victory over Team Liquid in a closely contested series. The Pacific-based Paper Rex demonstrated they remain strong competitors despite what many observed as an underwhelming year for their roster prior to the tournament. The series began with Paper Rex asserting their dominance on Ascent, their chosen map pick. However, Team Liquid refused to go quietly, staging a remarkable comeback attempt on the map as they fought from a 0-4 deficit to nearly equalize the scoreline. The series remained intensely competitive throughout. Both teams entered the competition’s opening match carrying significant pressure, as an early defeat would severely jeopardize their advancement prospects within their group, which also includes powerhouse organizations G2 and TYLOO. Victory in this match was critical for tournament momentum and seeding considerations. Paper Rex’s win positions them favorably in their group’s opening round, while Team Liquid must regroup quickly to salvage their championship hopes in the remaining group stage matches.