Natus Vincere and Gentle Mates start the year with victories

Natus Vincere and Gentle Mates claim victories on the opening day of VCT 2026: EMEA Kickoff

In Berlin, VCT 2026: EMEA Kickoff has kicked off. On the first match day at the Riot Games Arena, two upper-bracket matches were played, in which Natus Vincere and Gentle Mates confidently began their run at the tournament.

Match results

Natus Vincere left no chance for Karmine Corp, taking a clean 2:0 victory.

• Split: 13:11 - Win for Natus Vincere

• Haven: 13:5 - Win for Natus Vincere

• Bind: Not needed

In the second match of the day, Gentle Mates proved stronger than FUT Esports, also winning with a score of 2:0.

• Abyss: 13:8 - Win for Gentle Mates

• Split: 13:6 - Win for Gentle Mates

• Corrode: Not needed

The tournament is taking place in Berlin at Riot Games Arena from January 20 to February 15. It features the 12 strongest teams of the region, and the main prize is slots at the first international Masters event of the season — VALORANT Masters Santiago 2026.

• Playoff format: triple-elimination bracket.

• Prizing: The champion will earn 4 VCT EMEA points and a slot in Santiago. Second and third place also secure participation at Masters.

• Feature: Before each match, teams determine the side for the map pick/ban in a 1v1 Skirmish — a duel without abilities where the first player to take 5 rounds wins.