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Get ready for Valorant Masters Santiago as top Valorant teams from around the world gather in Chile for the first Masters event of 2026. With Pick’Ems now open, here are our recommendations for the Swiss Stage.
The first event of the season is always a bit unpredictable in any esport. Teams are still finding their footing, there have been some balancing adjustments, and while there is some data to analyze, the outcome is never certain.
That’s what makes Pick’Ems so thrilling. Here are our picks for the Swiss stage of Valorant Masters Santiago.
Undefeated: T1 (2-0)
Our top pick for a team going undefeated in the Swiss Stage is the Korean powerhouse T1. They showed their strength in the Pacific Kickoff, securing the second seed and defeating fellow Swiss Stage contender Paper Rex along the way.
With an advantageous opening match against Team Liquid, T1 is poised for a strong start, although an upset could always shake things up.
Gentle Mates (2-0)
Gentle Mates face a tough challenge in their first match against EDward Gaming, a team with the potential to surprise many in this tournament.
Despite this, Gentle Mates breezed through much of the EMEA Kickoff bracket before falling to BBL Esports, with standout performances from Martin “Marteen” Pátek. If they can contain him in their opening game, EDward Gaming could be a dark horse to advance through the Swiss Stage.
G2 (2-1)
G2 faces a closely matched opponent in their opening round against Paper Rex, a team that has shown promise in the Pacific region.
This match could swing either way, but G2, as the #2 seed from the Americas, should have the edge. Regardless of the outcome, G2 has the skill to compete against any team in the Swiss round.
Paper Rex (2-1)
Whether they triumph over G2 or not, Paper Rex is likely to make it to the Playoffs. There may be surprises along the way, but both teams are strong contenders.
Regardless of the result, we predict both teams will secure a spot in the Playoffs.
As with any tournament, the outcome is unpredictable. Reigning world champions NRG could make a strong showing, while EDward Gaming might surprise everyone with their performance on the international stage.
One thing is certain, with Valorant making its way to South America for the first time, fans can expect an exciting event filled with unexpected twists and turns.