Kha Y Tran The LCK 2026 Split 3 opened with an exciting Rise Group match between Kiwoom DRX (KRX) and Nongshim RedForce (NS).
Both teams needed a strong start. A win would improve their position and keep their Play-ins hopes alive.
However, the series quickly became one-sided. Nongshim RedForce controlled every stage of the match. Scout delivered an outstanding performance. At the same time, the entire roster executed teamfights almost flawlessly. As a result, NS secured a convincing 2-0 victory.
Watch the match at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAq2XGWIrtI
KRX vs NS Result
- Nongshim RedForce 2-0 Kiwoom DRX
- Game 1: NS Win
- Game 2: NS Win
- Player of the Match (POM): Scout
Therefore, Nongshim RedForce made the perfect start to LCK 2026 Split 3. Meanwhile, Kiwoom DRX must bounce back quickly to stay competitive in the Rise Group.
Game 1: Scout Dominates with the New Champion Locke
Nongshim RedForce surprised everyone during the draft. They picked the new champion Locke for Scout in the mid lane.
Meanwhile, Kiwoom DRX chose a scaling composition. Orianna and Yone were expected to carry in the late game.
NS wasted no time. They executed a clean dive in the bottom lane and secured an early lead. Shortly afterward, Scout roamed to the top side several times. Each roam created pressure and earned valuable kills.
As the game continued, Scout stacked Dark Seal very quickly. He then upgraded it into Mejai’s Soulstealer. Because of that, Locke’s burst damage became extremely difficult to handle.
KRX repeatedly tried to eliminate Scout. However, the gold gap continued to grow. In addition, NS controlled every major objective. Therefore, KRX never found a way back into the game.
Later, Nongshim secured Baron Nashor. They immediately pushed through KRX’s base. Scout finished with an outstanding 12/2/9 KDA. Meanwhile, Diable provided consistent damage throughout every fight.
Eventually, NS ended the first game in under 30 minutes and took a 1-0 lead.
Game 2: Strong Start for KRX, Better Finish for NS
Kiwoom DRX changed their strategy in Game 2. They drafted Skarner, Cassiopeia, and Sivir to improve their teamfighting.
On the other side, Nongshim selected Zaahen for Kingen, Syndra for Scout, and the Jhin-Leona duo in the bottom lane.
This time, KRX started much better. Willer rushed Heartsteel on Skarner and frequently helped every lane. As a result, KRX gained an early advantage in both gold and kills.
Furthermore, Skarner’s durability made early skirmishes difficult for NS.
Even so, the momentum changed during the mid game.
Kingen’s Zaahen became stronger with every fight. At the same time, Scout landed key Syndra abilities while staying perfectly positioned.
Ucal found a huge Petrifying Gaze with Cassiopeia. Nevertheless, it was not enough. Kingen broke through the frontline and led NS to victory.
Finally, Nongshim won the decisive fight around mid lane. They wiped out KRX and completed the 2-0 sweep.
Scout Earns Player of the Match
Scout was the best player of the series.
In Game 1, he showcased the full power of Locke. His roaming created pressure across the map. Moreover, his damage allowed NS to snowball quickly.
In Game 2, Scout switched to Syndra. Once again, he delivered an excellent performance. He positioned safely in every teamfight. In addition, he consistently dealt high damage. Because of that, NS recovered from an early deficit and secured another win.
Why Did Kiwoom DRX Lose?
KRX struggled in both the draft and the execution.
In Game 1, their composition needed time to scale. Unfortunately, Nongshim played at a much faster pace. Consequently, KRX never reached their strongest point.
Game 2 looked more promising. KRX built an early lead and controlled the opening minutes. However, they lacked enough damage to finish teamfights.
Moreover, their carries were caught out of position several times. Those mistakes proved costly. Kingen and Scout punished them every time.
Nongshim RedForce Send an Early Statement
This 2-0 victory sends a clear message to the rest of the Rise Group.
Nongshim RedForce looked sharp in every area. Their macro play was clean. Their drafting was effective. Most importantly, they adapted quickly to the new patch.
Scout starred throughout the series. Meanwhile, Kingen dominated the late-game fights. Together, they showed why NS could become a serious contender this split.
Meanwhile, Kiwoom DRX still have work to do. They must improve their drafts, teamfighting, and coordination. Otherwise, qualifying for the Play-ins will become much more difficult.
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#LCK2026 #KRX #NS #NSWin
