Playoffs at the "Cathedral of Counter-Strike"

Playoffs at the IEM Cologne 2026 Major begin tomorrow and the "Cathedral of Counter-Strike" awaits. For the second consecutive Major, FURIA and Team Spirit finished Stage III with perfect 3-0 records. Aurora, Falcons, and Vitality finished 3-1, and 9z Team, BetBoom, and G2 Esports advanced with 3-2 records. The Lanxess Arena will host the Playoffs, beginning with Thursday's Quarterfinals matchups:

• 9z Team vs. FURIA
• Aurora vs. BetBoom

The second set of Quarterfinals takes place Friday, featuring:

• G2 Esports vs. Team Spirit
• Falcons vs. Vitality

With Semifinals on Saturday and the Grand Finals on Sunday, we're in for a great weekend of Counter-Strike. As the Playoffs approach, there's still time to support your favorite teams. Team and player stickers are still available, with 50% of tournament item sales being shared with the tournament organizer, teams, and players. And don't forget, all Playoff picks for the Pick'Em Challenge must be submitted prior to the first Playoff match beginning; you don't want to miss your Diamond Coin! Vitality are looking to win their third straight Major. Will anyone stop them? Tune in and find out!