IEM Cologne 2026 Major Stage 2 Preview: Pick’Ems Predictions
The IEM Cologne 2026 Major’s Stage 2 is set to begin following a dramatic Stage 1 that featured unexpected developments and surprising progressions. Eight teams advanced from Stage 1: B8, BetBoom, M80, MIBR, GamerLegion, FlyQuest, Tyloo, and BIG. The most remarkable moment came when BIG executed an extraordinary comeback against NRG, winning from a seemingly insurmountable 0-12 deficit on Map 3.
Stage 2 marks the entry of several elite Counter-Strike competitors into the tournament. Teams including Spirit, Legacy, G2, and Astralis join the eight Stage 1 survivors, significantly raising the competition level. The stage is structured to determine which teams advance to Stage 3, where Counter-Strike’s most elite will vie for the championship.
The opening matches of Stage 2 feature competitive pairings: Astralis versus GamerLegion, G2 facing M80, Spirit taking on BetBoom, and Legacy battling MIBR. Additional matches include 9z versus FlyQuest, FUT against B8, paiN competing against Tyloo, and Monte facing BIG. Each victory brings teams closer to the final stage, while losses eliminate competitors from championship contention. The outcomes of Stage 2 will determine which teams advance to compete for the title and significant prize pool.