The second day of the IEM Cologne 2024 Group Stage has concluded, with the first teams securing their places in the upcoming playoffs at the LANXESS Arena. It was an eventful day filled with significant victories and one notable elimination.
NAVI Dominates Astralis
NAVI demonstrated why they are currently considered one of the best teams in Counter-Strike 2, securing the first playoff spot at IEM Cologne 2024 with a commanding 2-0 victory over Astralis. The Danish squad was outclassed throughout the series, with NAVI displaying an impressive level of preparation and execution. This performance from NAVI was even more convincing than their Major-winning form, sending a clear message to their competitors.
Among NAVI’s standout players was iM, who consistently broke through Astralis’ defenses, leaving them with no answers. The team’s cohesion and individual brilliance make NAVI a formidable opponent as the tournament progresses.
SAW Makes History by Reaching the LANXESS Arena
In a historic moment for Portuguese esports, SAW secured their first-ever playoff berth at IEM Cologne by defeating The MongolZ in a close 2-1 series. Despite losing the first map, SAW rallied behind an outstanding performance from ewjerkz, who delivered 61 kills across the series. The MongolZ fought valiantly, but ultimately fell short in the crucial moments.
With their playoff spot secured, SAW can now look forward to competing at the LANXESS Arena. Meanwhile, The MongolZ still have a chance to qualify but will face a tough road ahead in the Group A lower bracket.
G2 Sends Spirit Packing
In a match that guaranteed one team’s elimination, G2 emerged victorious over Spirit, sending the IEM Katowice 2024 champions home without a single map win. Spirit appeared out of sorts throughout the series, with key players like magixx and zont1x struggling to make an impact. This early exit from one of the year’s biggest tournaments raises concerns about the team’s future.
G2, on the other hand, showed significant improvement from their previous match against SAW. Led by a resurgent huNter-, the team made necessary adjustments and will now continue their journey through the tournament.
Day Two Results Recap:
- Vitality 2:0 FURIA
- MOUZ 2:1 Falcons
- NAVI 2:0 Astralis
- SAW 2:1 The MongolZ
- G2 2:0 Spirit
- paiN Gaming 2:1 9z Team
