LOUD Stun Paper Rex, NRG Outclass T1 in Valorant Champions Playoffs
Valorant Champions 2026 kicked off its playoff stage in Shanghai with two decisive matches that saw defending champions NRG progress past T1, while LOUD delivered an upset victory over Paper Rex. Both VCT Pacific representatives ended up in the lower bracket following these contests.
NRG demonstrated the experience advantage that comes with their Paris 2025 championship pedigree, overcoming T1’s strong early momentum on Lotus. Despite the Korean team building a commanding 7-3 lead and successfully planting the bomb in all three round losses—showcasing their ability to freely enter bomb sites—NRG’s adjustments and composure proved decisive in securing the series victory.
LOUD’s upset triumph over Paper Rex marked a significant result, eliminating one of the Pacific region’s strongest competitors from upper bracket contention. The matches underscore the competitive depth at this year’s Champions event, with the playoff format ensuring both eliminated teams retain lower bracket advancement opportunities in their pursuit of the championship.