IEM Cologne 2021 playoffs: Five players to watch
IEM Cologne 2021 is down to its final six teams. Only one will be crowned champion in the Cathedral of Counter-Strike, and these five players will be a big part in dictating whether CIS lifts another title in 2021, or a new contender arises ahead of the Major.
It’s truly been CIS vs the world in Counter-Strike so far in 2021, andIEM Cologne 2021is no different. While it’s not like Katowice (where all four CIS teams made it to playoffs), there’s still considerable representation in the top six. However, they’re not all in form. In fact, G2 Esports and FaZe Clan have been more of the surprise, pushing through to the top six despite fluctuating results. It’s also hard to look past Astralis too, who are trying to relive their glory days without dev1ce. So, who do you need to watch this weekend in the Cathedral of Counter-Strike? We’ve got five players you must keep an eye on (and trust us — it’s going to be a battle of the Big Green).
Oleksandr ‘s1mple’ Kostyliev (Natus Vincere)
He’s just had an unbelievable amount of impact, both with the AWP and without it. It’s truly s1mple’s Cologne to win, and while it’s not a Major, it’s certainly telling of his form ahead of PGL Stockholm in November.
Abay ‘Hobbit’ Khasenov (Gambit)
Timur ‘buster’ Tulepov (Virtus.pro)
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He’s not as electric as Jame or YEKINDAR — although his 1.36 rating and +13 KD against NiP shows he’s got the flair — but Buster’s clutch ability is exactly what you need once you hit the playoffs of a big event.
Francois ‘AmaNEk’ Delaunay (G2 Esports)
Helvijs ‘broky’ Saukants (FaZe Clan)
The IEM Cologne 2021 playoffs kick off on July 16.
