Kha Y Tran The DK vs NS match on January 21, 2026 was one of the most exciting series at the LCK Cup 2026. From the very beginning, the game promised intensity. In fact, in a tense best-of-three, Dplus KIA (DK) showed the mentality of a true powerhouse. As a result, they came back to defeat Nongshim RedForce (NS) 2–1 and therefore strengthened their position near the top of the standings.
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Draft & Pick Analysis
Across all three games, Dplus KIA clearly built their compositions around 5v5 teamfighting. In particular, DK prioritized champions with strong engage tools and solid positioning. Because of that, they consistently gained advantages in key Baron and Dragon fights.
On the other hand, Nongshim RedForce focused on champions that are strong in the laning phase. For example, in Game 2, their draft enabled NS to speed up the tempo and put DK under heavy pressure. However, in the late game, NS’s composition lacked stability in extended teamfights. Consequently, they struggled to close out games cleanly.
Moreover, DK showed excellent flexibility in their drafting between games. When necessary, they slowed the pace with control-oriented compositions. Meanwhile, when they needed to finish quickly, they switched to high-damage, burst setups. In contrast, NS were less adaptable. Therefore, they became easier to read in Game 3.
Match Breakdown
Game 1: DK’s Impressive Comeback
In the opening game, Nongshim RedForce started very aggressively. They controlled Dragons and major objectives well, building a gold lead in the mid game.
However, DK displayed superior composure. Thanks to precise teamfights around Baron, DK gradually took back control. The decisive moment came with a dominant fight on the top side of the map, where DK wiped NS and closed out the game to take a 1–0 lead.
Game 2: Nongshim RedForce Strike Back
In Game 2, NS changed their approach. They pushed the tempo early and constantly applied pressure to DK’s mid lane and jungle.
With proactive play, NS secured map control, took Baron, and snowballed the game. DK couldn’t find an effective counterplay and had to accept defeat in this game. NS tied the series and forced a deciding Game 3.
Game 3: DK Prove Their Championship Caliber
The deciding game saw DK play extremely clean. They controlled vision well and minimized NS’s opportunities to find picks.
DK gradually built a resource lead and dominated teamfights. After securing Baron, DK executed textbook lane pushes and gave NS no chance to fight back.
Key Highlights
- Despite being pushed into a tough situation in Game 2, DK stayed calm and focused on vision and major objectives rather than forcing fights.
- ShowMaker (DK) continued to be the core of Dplus KIA’s playstyle.
- Nongshim RedForce were far from weak — their skirmishing and early-game fights, especially in Game 2, were very effective.
- DK’s teamfighting showed superior coordination and competitive experience.
Conclusion
The win over Nongshim RedForce helps DK maintain their status as a top contender for the LCK Cup 2026 title. Their roster is not only mechanically strong but also extremely composed in crucial moments.
As for NS, despite the loss, they showed many positives. Their aggressive style and ability to create openings prove that they can compete with top teams — especially if they improve their late-game teamfight execution.
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