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Unexpected upsets make the game more exciting, reminding everyone that even the strongest teams can fall. This article looks at three remarkable CS2 underdog victories: Gambit’s PGL Major Kraków 2017 win, Cloud9’s ELEAGUE Major 2018 triumph, and AVANGAR’s surprising run at StarLadder Major 2019. These victories showed that with the right strategy, discipline, and teamwork, any team could topple giants and make history.
At the PGL Major Kraków 2017, Gambit Esports achieved one of the greatest Major tournament upsets in CS2 history. Despite entering the tournament as underdogs, Gambit defied expectations by defeating favorites like Astralis in the quarterfinals and Immortals in the finals to secure the Major victory. Their victory showcased brilliant team coordination, tactical precision, and leadership from Zeus, making Gambit a classic example of an underdog succeeding against all odds.
Perhaps one of the most well-known underdog stories in CS2 history was Cloud9’s ELEAGUE Major 2018 finals victory against FaZe. FaZe, with their star-studded lineup, were heavily favored, but Cloud9 pulled off an incredible win. In a tense, back-and-forth best-of-three series, Cloud9 secured victory after an overtime thriller on the final map.
The success of Cloud9 was built on flawless teamwork, calm under pressure, and standout performances from players like Stewie2K and tarik. This win not only marked the only Major title for a North American team but also remains one of the most memorable matches CS2 underdogs have ever played. The NA squad's ability to perform under pressure and execute strategies precisely led to one of the biggest surprises in CS2 Majors history.
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The StarLadder Major 2019 was another stage for an unexpected underdog success story. AVANGAR entered the tournament as a dark horse, but their impressive tactical depth and strong team play propelled them through the competition. Along the way, they defeated top teams like Vitality and Renegades, earning a spot in the finals against Astralis.
Although they lost in the finals, AVANGAR’s road to the championship match was nothing short of incredible. Jame’s leadership and the team’s ability to execute well-planned strategies made this journey a standout. Their performance emphasized that with discipline, patience, and the right approach, underdogs can make a significant impact, even on the grandest stage in CS2.
The following factors helped propel these teams to victory:
Event | Underdog Team | Favorite Defeated | Outcome |
PGL Major Kraków 2017 | Gambit Esports | Astralis | Gambit wins the Major |
ELEAGUE Major 2018 | Cloud9 | FaZe Clan | Cloud9 wins the Major |
StarLadder Major 2019 | AVANGAR | Vitality, Renegades | AVANGAR reaches final |
The victories of these underdog teams have left lasting impacts on the CS2 scene:
These CS2 underdog performances have reshaped the narrative of Major tournaments, showing that underdogs are capable of rising to the occasion and achieving greatness.
Key Factors in Underdog Wins | Impact on Game |
Superior Tactics and Strategy | Underdogs outmaneuver giants with innovative game plans |
Individual Heroics | Game-changing performances in high-pressure situations |
Mental Fortitude | Handling nerves better than expected, leading to victories |
In the Major history, these underdog victories will always be remembered as moments where the unexpected happened. Gambit’s triumph at PGL Major Kraków 2017, Cloud9 ELEAGUE Major 2018 recap, and AVANGAR’s deep run at StarLadder Major 2019 all serve as reminders that no team is unbeatable. These wins highlight how strategic brilliance, mental fortitude, and teamwork can overcome even the most skilled giants in CS2.
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