The first major international Valorant tournament of the year brought bitter disappointment for VCT China. Two representatives of the region — EDward Gaming and XLG Esports — have finished their run at VALORANT Masters Santiago 2026, failing to overcome the Swiss Stage barrier.
EDward Gaming lost 0:2 to Gentle Mates in the opening round. In the decisive elimination match, EDward Gaming faced the Korean roster T1 and once again suffered a 0:2 defeat.
For XLG, the draw proved no less unforgiving. In their opening match, they were swept 0:2 by North American powerhouse NRG. Their final chance to stay in the tournament came against G2 Esports, but the European side also proved stronger, securing another 0:2 victory.
Reminder: FUT Esports advanced to Stage 2 without a single loss.