XLG takes on G2! Can they pull off an upset? Rarga's form is key!

The Valorant 2026 London Masters playoffs have officially kicked off. PRX's first appearance was nothing short of stunning, showcasing the authority of a number-one seed. They swept aside a young LEV team 2-0—nearly a shutout in one map, then displaying elite resilience and insane gunfights in the other. That's the kind of intensity you expect from a championship favorite; they've delivered this kind of performance almost every time they've taken the stage. Meanwhile, in the other match, TH faced VIT. These two rivals from the EMEA league always bring a back-and-forth battle, but in the playoffs, VIT completed an upset by shutting out TH, winning almost every round convincingly. Their current form simply looks hotter.

PRX's victory over LEV set a benchmark for top seeds, and hopefully EDG can also easily take down FUT—just like their group stage result in 2024. VIT's win over TH showed how a second seed can turn things around, and we similarly hope XLG can beat G2. Speaking of XLG's match, while we really want them to win, they're up against a strong G2—a seasoned team with flexible strategies and explosive performances from every player. This draw feels like a repeat of San Diego for XLG: first losing to NRG, then to G2. So this match will be a huge test for them.

In their previous two matches against DRG and GE, XLG came back from a map down to win 2-1, showing a clear improvement in form. Happywei has been a reliable carry on the flanks, and the team's two most important explosive players, Rarga and Liu Yishou, have finally found their rhythm. Naman and Wsleo just need to handle their own roles well. The team is in good shape right now—if they avoid basic mistakes in coordination and trading, they definitely have a chance to upset G2. Finally, let's hope EDG plays their usual game and XLG can unleash their full potential. Keep up the good work!