Nongshim RedForce suffered a 0-2 setback as August’s LCK rounds 3-5 produced pivotal results across the Rise and Legend Groups.
In the Rise Group, BNK FearX edged past DRX to stay in the running, with their playoff hopes hinging on next Sunday’s decisive series against direct rivals OKSavingsBank BRION. That best-of-three will determine which team clinches the final Play-In spot from the group.
The impact was even clearer in the Legend Group, where Hanwha Life Esports swept Nongshim RedForce 2-0 to keep pressure on T1 for the second seed. T1 still lead the standings, but their fate could hinge on a climactic closing match against Gen.G. If T1 stumble, HLE would have a clear path to snatch the No. 2 seed, potentially bypassing the first playoff round in which the third seed must take on one of the Play-In teams.
A second-place finish remains highly prized. HLE’s win keeps them hopeful that Gen.G can upset T1, a result that would dramatically reshuffle the seedings as the regular season nears its end. Park “Viper” Do-hyeon delivered a standout performance in the first game, turning the tides to notch his 2,000th kill and 300th LCK win—adding another chapter to his storied career. Calix’s Akali also left a lasting impression in the second game, even though NS could not overturn the result.
Nongshim RedForce now have just one best-of series remaining. They are locked in fifth place with a guaranteed Play-In spot, but a potential morale boost could come from a win against KT Rolster next Sunday as they head into the knockout stages.
What to watch next
– Rise Group: BNK FearX vs. OKSavingsBank BRION to decide the final Play-In slot.
– Legend Group: T1 vs Gen.G in a high-stakes showdown; a Gen.G win would boost HLE’s chances at second place.
– Nongshim RedForce: a last BO against KT Rolster could impact momentum heading into Play-Ins.