The team LOUD secured its spot in the VCT Americas playoffs by defeating G2 2-0 this Friday (4), in a match held in front of Brazilian fans in São Paulo. With this result, LOUD eliminated its opponent from the competition.
In another match on the same day, 100 Thieves also overcame NRG 2-0, advancing to the grand final and securing its spot in Champions Shanghai.
The results determine that LOUD and NRG will meet again this Saturday (5) at 2 PM in a best-of-five series. For the Brazilian competitors, this match marks another advancement in a campaign characterized by recovery throughout the season.
LOUD's victory over G2 was achieved in two maps, with LOUD's effectiveness in decisive moments being a crucial factor. During the post-game press conference, G2 itself admitted to facing notable problems in retake and post-plant situations, flaws that the Brazilian players managed to capitalize on during the series.
For LOUD, playing at home added value to the result. Luke commented on the evolution of the roster, which underwent changes and is now beginning to convert the work done in recent months into concrete achievements. He stated: 'We are reaping what we planted.'
The player also expressed surprise at having the chance to participate in such a relevant stage with the support of the fans in São Paulo. Romanili shared a similar journey, speaking about his path from Ascension to the current campaign, affirming: 'It is a dream to represent the biggest team in Brazil.'
The crowd was a recurring theme in the interviews. Players from various teams praised the large number of Brazilian spectators, while members of LOUD addressed the emotional support necessary to manage pressure. Luke mentioned that the support of psychologist Bagé was essential during the playoffs.
In the other match of the day, 100 Thieves defeated NRG 2-0. This triumph also confirmed 100 Thieves' qualification for Champions Shanghai.
After the match, Asuna reflected on the team's previous participation in Masters Shanghai, emphasizing that returning to the city offers a new chance to achieve superior performance. He commented: 'I feel like we left a lot on the table last time.'
This qualification holds personal significance for Asuna. He and Bang have been friends for approximately six years, and the player described obtaining the international spot as equivalent to 'qualifying with a childhood friend.'
Timotinho emphasized the team's evolution throughout 2026. 100 Thieves was close to qualifying at several points during the season, won a spot and the title at EWC, and now arrives at the Americas Grand Final with its guaranteed presence at Champions.
On NRG's side, coach Bonkar acknowledged the superiority of the opposing team. According to him, 100 Thieves demonstrated being faster and more cohesive in their plays, while NRG relied too heavily on individual actions.
NRG will have little time to prepare, as they face LOUD this Saturday at 2 PM in a best-of-five series. Romanili explained in a press conference that there is no room for major tactical adjustments between games, and that the main focus will be the physical recovery of the athletes and maintaining confidence in the work already done, summarizing: 'It will be a game based on what you already know.'
For LOUD, this final stretch also symbolizes the consolidation of a roster that had to undergo reconstruction during the year. Erde admitted to having found difficulties at the beginning of his career as IGL, but expressed belief in his evolution in the role. TKzinho, for his part, highlighted the security in his own playstyle and the support received from teammates.
Currently, LOUD and NRG compete to determine who will advance in the VCT Americas title race, while 100 Thieves awaits the next phase with the important achievement of traveling to Champions Shanghai.