The return of Counter-Strike 2 to the U.S. at IEM Dallas generated much excitement, but all attention was on G2 Esports and stand-in player Stewie2K on the opening day. Unfortunately, the results did not go well for the American Major winner in his comeback to the tier one CS scene.
With in-game leader HooXi unable to attend due to his sister’s wedding, superstar player NiKo took on the role of captain while Stewie2K filled in for HooXi on the first day of IEM Dallas. G2 managed to defeat the Falcons 13-10, securing a slot in the upper bracket qualifier. However, their journey took a turn as they faced ZywOo and Vitality, who swiftly defeated G2 with a score of 2-0.
Stewie2K’s Transition to the CS Squad
Stewie2K has been doing his best to adjust to the Counter-Strike squad. Given his late addition as a stand-in, he has had limited practice with the team. After an extended period as a VALORANT player and streamer, Stewie2K has returned to competing in CS2. In the past, he has played with teams like Mythic and Legacy, but this time, he faces the top players in LAN tournaments.
Above all, Stewie2K’s main focus is on enjoying the experience of playing with NiKo and other talented players. In an interview after their win over the Falcons, Stewie2K expressed his excitement about playing with one of the best AWPers in the world, m0NESY. M0NESY also praised Stewie’s energy and contribution to the team.
Integrating a stand-in player like Stewie2K is never easy, especially when the sidelined player is the shotcaller. However, G2 focused on integrating the basics with Stewie and maintaining their team dynamic. They relied on each other, took more duels, and played the game by their own rules as they adjusted to the temporary roster change.
A Disappointing Performance against Vitality
G2 encountered difficulties in their match against Vitality in the upper bracket semifinal. Despite winning both pistols on Anubis, Vitality’s strong performance reset G2 and ultimately led to their defeat. Stewie2K managed to secure only 11 kills while Vitality dominated the European squad.
G2’s journey to the playoffs will be challenging. They will need to overcome the winner of the MOUZ-Complexity match and are likely to face the Falcons in a best-of-three rematch. G2 and Stewie2K will have to give their best at 6pm CT tomorrow to keep their hopes of progressing in the Dallas stage alive.
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