Nongshim RedForce Upsets Dplus KIA: How Did NS Pull Off a 2-1 Victory?

Match Overview: Nongshim RedForce’s Dramatic 2-1 Victory

Did you know? Nongshim RedForce pulled off a stunning upset against Dplus KIA with a 2-1 win in the LCK 2025 Regular Season. Both teams came in with solid records, but Nongshim’s underdog spirit shone through, breaking Dplus KIA’s historical dominance in their head-to-head matchups. This win shakes up the playoff race and signals Nongshim’s rise as a serious contender.

Set-by-Set Breakdown: Key Plays and Turning Points

Game 1 saw Nongshim RedForce come out swinging, leveraging Kingen’s creative champion picks in the top lane and Jiwoo’s precise teamfighting. Dplus KIA responded in Game 2 with ShowMaker’s unique Pantheon mid pick, but Nongshim’s resilience showed in Game 3, where Fisher’s control and Lehends’ playmaking on support turned the tide. Each set was marked by bold drafts and clutch moments, especially in late-game teamfights.

Key Players: Kingen and Jiwoo Steal the Spotlight

Kingen, known for his unconventional champion pool, was a game-changer in the series. His ability to flex picks like Anivia and Nidalee in the top lane disrupted Dplus KIA’s strategy. Jiwoo, the ADC, delivered consistent damage and showed nerves of steel in crucial fights, making him a fan favorite after this match. Fisher and Lehends also contributed with smart rotations and vision control.

Fan Reactions: Community Buzz and Hot Takes

Korean esports forums like DC Inside and PGR21 exploded with reactions after Nongshim’s win. About 70% of comments were positive, praising Kingen’s creativity and the team’s synergy. Some fans on FM Korea expressed skepticism about Dplus KIA’s draft choices, while others on Naver and Daum highlighted Jiwoo’s growth. A representative comment: “Kingen’s picks are genius. NS is the real dark horse this split!”

Cultural Insight: The Underdog Narrative in Korean Esports

For international fans, it’s important to understand that Korean esports culture loves an underdog story. Nongshim’s victory is not just about the score-it’s about breaking expectations and proving that teamwork and innovation can topple giants. The passionate fanbase rallies behind teams like NS when they defy the odds, making these moments especially memorable.

Post-Match Interviews: Confidence and Candid Reflections

In post-match interviews, Kingen credited the team’s preparation and willingness to try unconventional strategies. Jiwoo expressed gratitude for the fans’ support and promised to keep improving. Dplus KIA’s ShowMaker admitted the Pantheon pick was experimental and took responsibility for the Game 3 loss, vowing to bounce back stronger.

Team and Player Issues: What’s Next for Both Sides?

Nongshim RedForce’s win puts them in a strong position for playoff qualification, but consistency remains a concern. Dplus KIA faces questions about their draft flexibility and mental resilience, especially after losing a series where they were favored. Both teams will need to adapt quickly as the LCK season heats up.