NRG Sweep Cloud9 2–0 to Open Kickoff 2026 Playoffs
NRG opened VCT Americas: Kickoff 2026 playoffs with a clean 2–0 over Cloud9, winning Pearl (13–2) and Breeze (13–9). The result sends NRG forward in the upper bracket while Cloud9 drop to a lower-bracket matchup.
NRG Sweep Cloud9 2–0 to Open Kickoff 2026 Playoffs
NRG started their VCT Americas: Kickoff 2026 (Playoffs) run with a decisive 2–0 win over Cloud9, setting the tone early and controlling the series from start to finish. The sweep keeps NRG in the upper bracket and puts Cloud9 into a must-win path through the lower side of the playoff bracket.
Map recap
Map 1 — Pearl (NRG 13–2) NRG came out firing on Pearl and quickly built a lopsided lead, shutting down Cloud9’s ability to settle into the map. The 13–2 scoreline reflects how cleanly NRG converted advantages—both in round-to-round tempo and in closing out halves without giving Cloud9 space to stabilize.
Map 2 — Breeze (NRG 13–9) Breeze was far more competitive. Cloud9 found more footing and fought back into the map, but NRG stayed composed in the mid-to-late rounds and consistently did enough to keep control of the scoreboard. Once NRG reached the closing rounds, they finished the job to secure the sweep.
Why this result matters
A strong opening sweep like this is exactly what teams want early in the Kickoff bracket — it’s not just a win, it’s a statement that your game plan is working and your execution is stable across different looks. For Cloud9, the loss doesn’t end their run, but it does raise the pressure immediately: one more series loss and the tournament is over.
What’s next
NRG vs MIBR is up next in the upper bracket on January 30, 2026.
Cloud9 vs LOUD moves to the lower bracket on January 23, 2026.