Spirit to Face G2, Vitality Against Falcons in IEM Cologne Major 2026 Playoffs

The group stage of the IEM Cologne Major 2026 has concluded, and all eight playoff participants have been determined. Following Stage 3, the teams advancing to the decisive part of the tournament are Spirit, Vitality, Aurora, FURIA, G2, Falcons, 9z, and BetBoom.

The quarterfinal matches kick off on June 18, with teams competing for a spot in the semifinals and a chance to continue their fight for the championship title of one of the most prestigious tournaments of the year.

IEM Cologne Major 2026 Quarterfinal Matchups

June 18

• Aurora vs BetBoom - 16:45 
• 9z vs FURIA - 20:00 

June 19

• Spirit vs G2 - 16:45
• Falcons vs Vitality - 20:00 

Potential Semifinal Clashes

The winner of the Aurora vs BetBoom match will face the victor of the 9z vs FURIA pairing.

On the other side of the bracket, the winner of the Spirit vs G2 showdown will play against the stronger team from the Falcons vs Vitality match.

Most Anticipated Matches

The duel between Spirit and G2 draws particular attention. The Russian team advanced through both stages of the major with a 3-0 record and remains one of the tournament's top favorites. Meanwhile, G2 secured their playoff spot only in the final round of the Swiss system, eliminating NAVI.

Equally intriguing is the match between Falcons and Vitality. Both teams are among the title contenders, making this encounter effectively an early final for many fans.

The playoffs of IEM Cologne Major 2026 will take place at the Lanxess Arena, where the new major champion and the holder of the largest trophy of the first half of the season will be determined.