Ninjas in Pyjamas Fails to Reach Playoffs of Counter-Strike Major for First Time
The renowned Swedish roster, Ninjas in Pyjamas, has suffered a significant setback by failing to reach the playoffs of a Counter-Strike: Global Offensive major for the first time.
Despite consistently securing top placings in previous majors, NiP has only won one title. In 2014, they emerged victorious at ESL One Cologne.
Disappointing Performance at ESL One Cologne
Prior to exiting ESL One Cologne, NiP’s worst performance at a Valve major was an eighth-place finish at the previous event in Columbus, Ohio. Due to visa issues, they had to compete with their coach for that tournament.
Although highly favored, NiP lost decisively to Na’Vi in the group stage, forcing them into a crucial match against FlipSid3. The Ukrainian team, led by markeloff and WorldEdit, ultimately prevailed.
Close Matches, but FlipSid3 Emerges Victorious
The series between NiP and FlipSid3 was closely contested. NiP narrowly won the first map, but FlipSid3 dominated the second map, losing only two rounds. The final map was more evenly matched, but FlipSid3 secured a comfortable win.
As a result, FlipSid3 automatically qualifies for the next Valve major, while NiP will have to go through the highly competitive qualifiers.
FlipSid3 has qualified for five Valve Majors before, but they have never advanced past the group stage. This marks their first time in the playoffs at a Valve-sponsored event.