Fnatic and Ninjas in Pyjamas faced off on the Gfinity 3 main stage during Pool Play, competing for a chance to advance to Championship Sunday. This match could determine the fate of one of these top-tier teams.
[insert image of NiP vs. Fnatic with rosters]
Ninjas in Pyjamas Take the Lead
Both teams played a best-of-one match on de_Dust 2. Fnatic, starting as the Terrorists, quickly secured the first round with a triple kill by Xizt. However, Ninjas in Pyjamas showcased great teamwork and started to dominate, winning round 3 with an impressive quad kill by Friberg. Despite Fnatic’s attempt to push long A in the next round, they were outnumbered and easily defeated by Ninjas in Pyjamas, resulting in a 4-1 score. Fnatic struggled in subsequent rounds, eventually being forced into an eco round due to lack of funds. Despite successfully planting the bomb on B site, they were unable to secure the round as Fifflaren clutched with a pistol, bringing the score to 6-1 in favor of Ninjas in Pyjamas.
Fnatic Narrows the Gap
Fnatic, now with more money in the bank, made a safe offensive push on short, gaining two entry kills on A site. With the bomb planted and Ninjas in Pyjamas losing their remaining players, Fnatic closed the gap to 6-2. They attempted to build momentum by pushing long A in the next round, successfully planting the bomb before being shut down by Friberg. Despite initially trailing behind at 9-2, Fnatic rallied and won four consecutive rounds, ending the half with a score of 9-6.
Back-and-Forth Battle
Ninjas in Pyjamas launched an offensive on short, but were quickly countered by Fnatic, bringing the score to 9-7. Fnatic continued their comeback, winning two more rounds confidently to tie the score at 9-9. In round 19, NiP got a pick in mid and pushed through to B with determination, forcing the last Fnatic player to save his gear and concede the round. Both teams exchanged scores, resulting in a 14-14 tie. It was a closely contested match, and either team had a chance to win. NiP forced a buy in round 28 and pushed mid, but Fnatic turned the tables and took the lead at 15-14. In round 30, Fnatic completely overwhelmed NiP as they entered A, securing the victory with a score of 16-14.