Cloud9 upset Natus Vincere in one of the most intense Counter-Strike matches that ESL Cologne has ever seen earlier today. The North Americans defeated Na’Vi 2-0 to reach the grand final of this six day event.
Mirage
Cloud9 started off with an explosive Terrorist half to gain a good edge over the CIS powerhouse at 10-5. After a slippery first part of the second half on the Counter-Terrorist side, C9 was finally able to close out Mirage 16-13. Jake “Stewie2k” Yip led the charge with 27 kills, which consisted mostly of impact frags.
Overpass
Na’Vi proved that they weren’t going down without a fight on their map pick. C9’s Counter-Terrorist initial aggression gave them the edge over a struggling Na’Vi. Rounds were being traded back and forth as the game progressed, until Cloud9 attempted some risky rushes to close out the game 16-14. Insane clutches from Mike “shroud” Grzesiek (two one-on-three clutches) and Jordan “n0thing” Gilbert (a round 30 one-on-one) solidified their spot in the grand finals of ESL Cologne.
The playoff picture
Cloud9 has reached their first grand final of a major tournament since their ESL Pro League Season Four win in October 2016. Their playoff berth has earned them a match against the winner of FaZe Clan vs. SK Gaming, which will take place tomorrow at 10am ET.
