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.

• Gambit’s PGL Major Kraków 2017 Triumph
• Cloud9’s Historic ELEAGUE Major 2018 Win
  
• AVANGAR’s Impressive Run at StarLadder Major 2019
  
• Factors Behind These Underdog Wins
  
• Impact of These Underdog Performances

Gambit’s PGL Major Kraków 2017 Triumph

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.

Cloud9’s Historic ELEAGUE Major 2018 Win

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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AVANGAR’s Impressive Run at StarLadder Major 2019

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.

Factors Behind These Underdog Wins

The following factors helped propel these teams to victory:

1. Tactical Innovation: Each of these teams approached their matches with unique strategies that threw their favored opponents off balance.
2. Mental Resilience: The ability to stay calm under pressure, particularly in high-stakes matches like Cloud9’s overtime against FaZe, was crucial.
3. Team Coordination: Cohesive teamwork enabled these teams to outperform individual superstars, proving that synergy often beats raw talent.
4. Adaptability: These underdog teams were able to adjust their strategies mid-match, allowing them to counter the strengths of their opponents.

Impact of These Underdog Performances

The victories of these underdog teams have left lasting impacts on the CS2 scene:

• Change in Tactics: Gambit’s and Cloud9’s victories inspired new tactical approaches in the competitive scene, showing that calculated risks can pay off.
• New Aspirations: AVANGAR’s run to the finals gave hope to many up-and-coming teams, proving that even underdogs can reach the highest levels with enough dedication.
• Fan Engagement: These upsets reignited interest among fans, reminding them of the unpredictable and thrilling nature of CS2 tournaments.

These CS2 underdog performances have reshaped the narrative of Major tournaments, showing that underdogs are capable of rising to the occasion and achieving greatness.

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.