G2 Esports defies the odds to win IEM Dallas 2024
In a stunning turn of events, G2 Esports emerged victorious in the IEM Dallas 2024 playoffs, securing their first-ever Counter-Strike 2 title. Despite being considered underdogs, G2 Esports upset Vitality 2-1 to win the prized trophy on Sunday night.
The Rise of Stewie2k
While G2’s m0NESY won the tournament MVP award for his outstanding performance in the grand final, the focus was on Stewie2K. G2 brought in Stewie2K, an American Major champion, at the last minute after their captain, HooXi, left. Stewie2K’s contribution to G2’s victory marks his victorious return to the Counter-Strike arena following a stint with VALORANT. His performance, and the critical role he played in ensuring G2’s victory—their first since IEM Cologne 2023—enthralled the audience.
After the grand final victory, an ecstatic Stewie2K It is possibly the greatest sensation ever. I feel like I have been through hell for this shit, and I am extremely appreciative and thankful. Stewie2K’s comeback to tier-one Counter-Strike has sparked interest in the competitive scene, despite the fact that his stats do not properly reflect his effect. He said that he was not prepared for the competition at first, but that everything worked out in the end.
NiKo, who was awestruck after the victory, acknowledged the severity of the voyage. G2’s journey to victory includes a lower bracket group stage run, victories over known CS2 teams FaZe Clan and surprise competitor 9z, and a thrilling final match versus the third-ranked squad. The last match was action-packed, with two overtime runs and a near-perfect CT performance on Nuke. NiKo reflected on his experience, saying, “This has been one of the most grueling games I have played this season.” Overtimes on the first two maps, returning to the T side, the pressure… it does not matter in the end; we won the Cup.”
The team entrusted Stewie2K with the honor of lifting the trophy, marking his return to the Counter-Strike winner’s circle after nearly five years since his previous victory with Team Liquid in IEM Chicago. Although Stewie2K’s stint with G2 is coming to an end, his performance in Dallas this week has solidified his place in the scene. Regardless of where he goes next, the North American Counter-Strike community and the competitive gaming world will not forget the influence he had.
G2 will compete in the BLAST Premier Spring Final in London’s OVO Arena in 10 days. HooXi, the team’s in-game leader, will return, and with an IEM Dallas medal on their résumé, G2 is set for even more success. Stewie2K’s search for a new CS2 squad continues, but given his recent victory, he is unlikely to be teamless for long.
ESN.GG is supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission.