Dplus KIA return to Worlds 2026: 3-1 win over KT Rolster and the unfinished journey

Dplus KIA have officially qualified for Worlds 2026 after defeating KT Rolster 3-1 in the LCK Playoffs on Friday, August 14, 2026. The victory answered doubts following a 0-3 loss to the same opponent only days earlier. Dplus KIA had nearly been eliminated by BNK FEARX after trailing 2-0, but they completed a reverse sweep and then beat KT Rolster to secure a top-four spot. KT Rolster will now play at the Demacia Cup Global Invitational. This result marks Dplus KIA's return to the World Championship after missing Worlds 2026. Young players Smash, Career, and Siwoo will attend Worlds for the first time. Smash, the Esports World Cup final MVP, was a key factor in the winning games. Career also recovered after a poor Game 1 and helped stabilize the bottom lane. The team showed strong draft discipline and patience in a 42-minute Game 2. However, Dplus KIA still need three more wins to claim the LCK title, and their next challenge is T1 on Sunday, August 16, 2026. The road to a world championship remains long, but this team has proven they can rise under pressure.