Spirit edge out G2 in a three-map series and start the IEM Krakow 2026 playoffs from the semifinals
Spirit secured a hard-fought victory over G2 in a three-map series at IEM Krakow 2026, winning the matchup 2:1. The teams traded convincing wins on Anubis and Overpass, while the outcome was decided on a tense Dust2 that went to overtime. Thanks to their composure in key moments, Team Spirit managed to outlast their opponents, while G2 Esports, despite the loss, still retain a chance to fight for the trophy in the playoffs.
Map veto:
- G2 removed Nuke
- Spirit removed Inferno
- G2 picked Anubis
- Spirit picked Overpass
- G2 removed Mirage
- Spirit removed Ancient
- Dust2 was left over
Anubis (13:8 Spirit)
Spirit started on the CT side on their opponent’s pick. In the first half, G2 were unable to run their usual T-side rounds and managed to secure only three rounds. After the side switch, G2 tried to take control on the CT side, but as so often happens, donk left them no chances. Spirit closed out their opponent’s pick 13:8.
Overpass (13:8 G2)
G2 imposed their tempo from the opening rounds on Overpass and got off to a confident start. In the first half, playing on the CT side, G2 consistently found key entries and finished the half with a strong 9:3 lead. After the side switch, Spirit attempted to get back into the game on defense, but G2 stayed composed on the T side, controlled key areas, and closed the map without major issues, winning 13:8.
Dust2 (16:12 Spirit)
The deciding Dust2 turned out to be far from easy for Spirit. In the first half, Spirit held an 8:4 advantage thanks to solid play on the CT side. After the side switch, G2 put together a five-round streak and even took a one-round lead. Spirit eventually reached match point, but the final crucial round went G2’s way, sending the game into overtime. In the first overtime series, G2 managed to win only one round, as Spirit secured Dust2 16:12.
Match MVP
This time, the best player of the match was Spirit’s AWPer sh1ro, who finished the series with a 1.42 rating.
Although this match did not decide the teams’ fate at the tournament, Spirit will start the playoffs from the semifinals, while G2 will have to battle in the quarterfinals. IEM Krakow Stage 2 runs from January 31 to February 3, with 16 teams competing for spots in the playoffs.
10fauesde
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