Worlds 2026 Play-In Draw: Karmine Corp Faces Cloud9
Written with artificial intelligence.
The official draw for the Worlds 2026 Play-In has set up a matchup between Karmine Corp and Cloud9 in the first round. The tournament, featuring a double elimination format, will see FURIA take on MVK Esports as well.
Matchup Overview
Riot Games recently conducted the draw for the Play-In stage of the Worlds 2026, determining the fates of four teams vying for the last spot in the Main Event. Karmine Corp will challenge Cloud9 in the Upper Bracket, while FURIA will face MVK Esports in a separate opening round.
Teams' Backgrounds
Both Karmine Corp and Cloud9 enter the Play-In stage after failing to secure direct qualification through their respective regional leagues. Karmine Corp lost their place to G2 Esports and Movistar KOI during the LEC Summer Split playoffs, indicating some inconsistency in their performance. Similarly, Cloud9 struggled in the LCS playoffs against Team Liquid and LYON, making this matchup critical for both teams.
Tournament Format and Schedule
The Play-In will take place at the Riot Games Arena in Los Angeles, following a double elimination format with all matches played in best-of-five series. The opening series will begin on October 15 at 20:00, featuring FURIA against MVK Esports, while Karmine Corp's clash with Cloud9 is scheduled for late in the night.
The winner of this Play-In will advance to the Main Event, slated to start on October 23 at the Credit Union of Texas Event Center in Allen, Texas. Key dates include the quarterfinals from November 3 to 6 and the semifinals on November 7 and 8, culminating in the finals at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn on November 14.