Kha Y Tran On January 30, 2026, in the framework of the LCK Cup 2026 – Super Week, the matchup between KT Rolster and Nongshim RedForce (NS) delivered a breathtaking Best-of-5 series. At first, KT were expected to dominate. However, as the series unfolded, Nongshim RedForce proved otherwise. In the end, NS defeated KT Rolster 3–2, creating one of the biggest upsets of the LCK season.
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Draft Analysis – NS Outdraft KT in Key Games
In the Bo5 series between KT Rolster and Nongshim RedForce, the ban–pick phase played a crucial role and, as a result, directly shaped the outcome. Both teams showed strong preparation. Nevertheless, NS used their drafts more effectively in the decisive games.
KT Rolster generally built 5v5 team-fight compositions with multiple engage tools. Moreover, their strategy was centered around Bdd as the main control point. However, these drafts were highly dependent on early-game tempo. When NS snowballed ahead, KT lacked tools for cross-mapping and map pressure. In addition, in some games, KT’s compositions did not scale well into the late game.
By contrast, Nongshim RedForce showed a very clear drafting philosophy. They prioritized controlled, objective-focused compositions. Furthermore, they always had a solid frontline and strong backline damage. Most importantly, NS excelled at pick potential and vision control. As a result, they could force small skirmishes, secure early Baron or Dragon pressure, and avoid relying on a single superstar carry.
Detailed Match Breakdown
Game 1: NS Take Full Control – KT Falls Into Their Tempo
From the laning phase, Nongshim RedForce played aggressively. In the bottom lane, NS’s ADC–support duo constantly pushed the wave and pressured KT’s outer turret early. Meanwhile, NS’s jungler intervened perfectly around the river, securing the first two kills of the game.
KT tried to respond on the top side, but every gank attempt was read and countered. After 15 minutes, NS held a 4,000-gold lead and secured two Dragons. With that advantage, NS forced a fight at Baron. A clean team fight win gave them Baron and allowed them to march straight into KT’s base, ending the game in just over 28 minutes.
Game 2: NS Continue to Snowball – KT Make Tactical Errors
In Game 2, KT adjusted their playstyle and focused on early objectives. However, NS continued to read the map better. At minute 7, NS executed a perfect mid-lane flank, catching Bdd and opening up a strong snowball.
KT were forced into constant defense. Every time they attempted to contest a major objective, NS arrived in time to counter. At minute 22, a 5v5 fight around the Dragon pit resulted in four kills for NS, putting them on the brink of Dragon Soul.
With Baron secured shortly after, NS pushed straight through mid lane and closed out Game 2 decisively.
Game 3: KT Strike Back – Bdd Leads the Charge
Down 0–2, KT Rolster had no room for error. In Game 3, they drafted a full team-fight composition. From the early game, KT controlled vision well and successfully counter-ganked on both sides of the map.
At minute 12, KT won their first major team fight in the bottom lane, securing three kills and swinging the momentum. Bdd began to shine, landing crucial abilities in every skirmish. KT dominated Dragon and Baron control.
After securing Baron at minute 25, KT pushed all three lanes simultaneously. NS couldn’t hold, and their Nexus fell after one final team fight.
Game 4: KT Maintain Momentum – Series Tied 2–2
Riding their momentum, KT continued to play proactively in Game 4. They controlled all three lanes and heavily invaded NS’s jungle, denying farm and vision.
At minute 18, KT successfully caught a key NS member near Baron and secured the objective without losing anyone. With Baron buff, KT dismantled all of NS’s outer turrets.
Despite NS’s attempts to defend, one lost fight at minute 30 sealed their fate as KT pushed into the base and destroyed the Nexus.
Game 5: NS Show Composure – Finish KT in the Decider
The final game was extremely tense. Both teams played cautiously, prioritizing vision and avoiding risky plays. For the first 20 minutes, kills were scarce.
The turning point came at minute 24 when NS caught KT’s jungler near Baron. NS immediately secured Baron and took full control of the map.
KT tried to fight back, but at minute 32, a decisive team fight in mid lane went completely in NS’s favor. With four kills and no losses, NS marched into KT’s base and ended the series.
Key Highlights
- Nongshim RedForce exceeded expectations, especially in team-fight execution and late-game composure.
- KT Rolster showed strong fighting spirit, coming back from 0–2 to force a Game 5.
- The match is widely considered one of the most exciting series of LCK Super Week 2026.
Conclusion
The match between KT Rolster and Nongshim RedForce on January 30, 2026 perfectly showcased how unforgiving the LCK Super Week can be. With a dramatic 3–2 victory, NS delivered a massive upset and made the LCK Cup 2026 standings more unpredictable than ever.
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Quynh Bui 
