The last day of IEM Cologne 2021’s group stage saw some incredible games as teams fought to make the playoff cut.
The final day of the groups stage featured some incredible matchups between some of the best remaining teams. The winner and loser bracket finals decided the seeding of those who would compete in the single elimination bracket. Virtus.pro, Gambit, FaZe, and _ escaped groups while G2 and _ claimed top seeding. With only six teams remaining, teams no longer have room for error as we enter playoffs.
Could G2 take the entire tournament?
G2 had a difficult path to the playoffs paved with difficult opponents in Virtus.pro, BIG, and most notably Gambit. G2 succeeded at the final hurdle of IEM Cologne 2021’s group stage, taking the first seed with their victory. Gambit have been one of the best performing teams in 2021, claiming several major titles and making seven straight grand finals appearances. Even in their 2-1 loss, Gambit had some incredible individual performances.
G2 won off of three tightly contested games, taking both Mirage (13-16) and Inferno (14-16). Gambit may have outfragged G2, but G2’s better teamplay prevailed. Still, Francois “AmaNEk” Delaunay had a great game, finding 57 total frags across the three games.
FaZe take group B’s lower bracket
FaZe’s first LAN back has been a return to form for the international roster. Falling to the lower bracket in their first game, FaZe has since stringed together several respectable performances. Their win against Heroic clinched their spot in playoffs.
Helvijs “broky” Saukants had a career performance as he found 68 total frags and 82.6 ADR. Now advancing to the single elimination bracket, FaZe’s next tall task will be taking on Gambit. FaZe will have to hope that their recent surge is accompanied by Gambit’s slump after their loss against G2.
Also read:
- Update: Heroic cleared to leave quarantine at IEM Cologne 2021
- Will CIS also dominate offline? – IEM Cologne 2021 Group Stage preview
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Image Credit: ESL