Gen.G had to work for its place in the Worlds 2026 quarterfinals. After dropping the opening game to LYON, the LCK champion won the next two to take the qualification series 2–1 in Allen, Texas.
The series was played on October 25 local time, finishing after midnight in Central Europe. Gen.G exits the Swiss Stage with a 3–0 series record and joins Dplus KIA in the last eight. LYON moves to 2–1 and still needs one more best-of-three win to qualify.
LYON strikes first, Gen.G finds an answer
LYON made the opening game count through decisive Baron calls and follow-up fights. Its first Baron gave it room to push through mid, and the next helped turn that control into a win. Gen.G’s unbeaten map record at the tournament was gone.
The response came through Chovy and Kiin. Lissandra and Ambessa gave Gen.G the tools to take over the second game, with the Korean side building a substantial lead before securing Baron and Dragon Soul to force a decider.
LYON again challenged Gen.G in game three, finding pressure in lane and winning an important dragon fight. Kiin’s Camille ultimately made the difference in the later teamfights, helping Gen.G turn the game and finish the series.
Two quarterfinalists confirmed, LYON still alive
Gen.G’s Swiss run ends with victories over Invictus Gaming, Hanwha Life Esports and LYON. The team advances with four map wins and one defeat, while DK completed its own 3–0 run without dropping a map.
For Inspired and LYON, this loss uses up the first of three chances to convert a 2–0 start into qualification. The team remains in the same 2–1 pool as Movistar KOI, with its next opponent to be determined by the remaining results and draw.