ENCE vs G2 – IEM Cologne Grand Finals Preview

We are hours away from the IEM Cologne 2023 Grand Finals.

Two of the best performing teams in the past two weeks are set to earn the last IEM Cologne CS:GO trophy. We’ve already seen some historic plays at this event and can only hope the final delivers in spades.

The Cathedral of CS:GO Awaits

We are about to crown the final CS:GO Champion at the Lanxess Arena. Two squads have a chance to upset the Global Rankings and set themselves up as the best CS:GO team in the world. They also get to be the last team to lift the Cologne CS:GO trophy.

Plenty of the pre-event favorites crashed out early at this event, either in groups or early in Playoffs. In fact, only two people globally have predicted an outright ENCE vs G2 Esports final in Cologne. This unique way the bracket developed, and the amazing atmosphere at the Arena is why Sjokz lost her heart to Cologne. We are truly witnessing history.

Today’s final is different than all previous iterations that preceded it. Etching oneself as the last CS:GO champion at Lanxess is truly an achievement that cannot be surpassed.

G2 Esports vs ENCE – IEM Cologne 2023 Finals Preview

Both ENCE and G2 Esports went through the bracket without dropping a match or playing an elimination series in the Group Stage. They both eliminated better ranked teams in Playoffs, and both rosters have a serious positive momentum going into the final.

Jks said it himself, Hooxi is having a great event. Who would have thought this duo is the secret ingredient G2 Esports needed in Cologne. The stats don’t do justice how clutch both players were as G2 held firm in the semi-finals. Nuance and stability is what they brought, and G2 is looking on form for this final.

Opposing them, ENCE, a roster that was “eliminated” by analysts all the way back in Groups. Everyone (Fnatic, Heroic, Vitality) crumbled under the glorious EZ4ENCE pressure, despite them being considered underdogs in two out of three duels. If their miracle run continues, ENCE are looking at a potential Grand Slam run with 9 chances to earn it.

Early sentiments from both teams are a feel good vibe and positive momentum into the grand final.

ENCE or G2 – Who Comes Out on Top?

Looking at the map specifics, Nuke and Mirage look like contested picks for both sides, with ENCE potentially looking to throw a wrench with an Overpass pick, while G2 will look toward Ancient. Finally, Anubis and Inferno are outliers for either side respectively and may end up with heavily one sided scorelines if chosen.

When comparing player performance head to head, G2 Esports takes the cake across almost all categories and comparisons. Yet, these same comparisons pegged ENCE underogs in their previous three duels, and  results do not support performance based predictions.

Hooxi on one side and Snappi on the other. They only need to really hold their own in the niche situation where their impact is needed. Clutch plays will definitely swing some rounds, but consistency by the “worst” performance will be key to this duel.

In the end, all we can hope for is an exciting final that truly celebrates Global Offensive as the title that re-defined esports over the past decade.

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