Nongshim REDFORCE emerged victorious against BNK FEARX with a 2-0 score in the initial round of the 2026 League of Legends Champions Korea (LCK) regular season at LoL PARK in Jongno on the 15th. Despite BNK FEARX’s recent win, they were unable to continue their success against Nongshim. On the other hand, Nongshim, after facing two losses in the second week, made a strong comeback with a decisive 2-0 win, improving their season record to 3-2.
After the match, Head Coach Choi In-kyu mentioned that they had struggled with “missing many of the opponent’s setups” in their previous defeats. We had the opportunity to speak with him for a more detailed analysis post-match.
Q. Can you summarize today’s match?
Head Coach Choi In-kyu= I am pleased with our 2-0 victory. Despite facing challenges in the late game despite early leads in both rounds, we effectively utilized our champion strengths during the pick-ban phase.
‘Sponge’= I am thrilled about our 2-0 win.
Q. The first round was intense. What do you believe was the turning point?
Head Coach Choi In-kyu= I think it was due to our advantageous positions in both matches.
‘Sponge’= I think the victory in the bottom lane skirmish with Pantheon was crucial in the first round.
Q. How did you strategize for ‘Daystar’s’ gameplay?
Head Coach Choi In-kyu= We were aware of their strong teamfight abilities, particularly ‘Raptor’s’ aggressive nature, so we devised specific counters.
Q. What feedback did you offer during the two-game losing streak?
Head Coach Choi In-kyu= We had been missing many of the opponent’s movements and setups. Conversely, our team lacked coordination, so we concentrated on improving in those areas.
Q. Despite often securing early leads, you have shown some instability in the late game.
‘Sponge’= There were some communication errors, and at times mistakes were made due to uncertainties in executing our macro play.
Q. Anivia and Bard are frequently chosen as high-priority picks. What is the reason behind this trend?
Head Coach Choi In-kyu= Bard offers versatility in gameplay, with excellent synergy with various jungle pathing options. Anivia excels in laning phases and introduces unique variables, providing significant advantages.
Q. How did you feel when Kalista secured a quadra kill late in the match?
Head Coach Choi In-kyu= Our team composition did not guarantee victory in extended matches. The quadra kill did raise concerns, but I believed we could win the next teamfight if the game continued.
‘Sponge’= Our teamfight initiation was lacking, and I acknowledged my role in setting up the fight poorly. I remained confident that we would secure victory in the subsequent teamfight, as long as the game did not end abruptly.
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