ELEAGUE Major Qualifier Shock: Ninjas in Pyjamas Fail to Reach Valve Event for First Time
Ninjas in Pyjamas, the legendary Swedish side that has attended every Counter-Strike: Global Offensive Major, has been eliminated from the ELEAGUE Major qualifier in a surprising upset loss to Vega Squadron.
Early Aggression and Pressure Overwhelm NiP
The Russian underdogs, Vega Squadron, dominated the Ninjas in Pyjamas with their early aggression and pressure, ending the first half of the match on Cache with a commanding lead of 13-2. Despite the break, Ninjas in Pyjamas failed to recover, and Vega Squadron quickly secured three more round wins to secure their incredible victory.
A Disappointing Year for NiP
In 2016, Ninjas in Pyjamas’ performance in the Majors has been a cause for concern. They failed to reach the playoffs at ESL One Cologne, marking the first time they missed it in Major history. Although they had wins at IEM Oakland and StarLadder, their year ended on a disappointing note.
Eliminations and Remaining Contenders for the Major
Counter Logic Gaming also suffered elimination, losing to Team Dignitas and Cloud9 with a 1-3 score. EnVyUs sent Tyloo packing as well. On the other hand, OpTic Gaming, Dignitas, and Mousesports secured three of the remaining six spots in the Major. Hellraisers and Immortals are on the edge, going 2-0 in their first matches, but losing the next two. They will need a final win to secure a spot in the Major.
In the final round of games, EnVyUs will face off against Vega Squadron, Immortals will play against G2 Esports, and Cloud9 will take on Hellraisers.