FunPlus Phoenix score IEM Summer slot over BIG and G2 Esports

FunPlus Phoenix orchestrated one of the most remarkable qualification stories in recent CSGO history, punching their ticket to the prestigious $250,000 Summer Intel Extreme Masters XVI through sheer determination.

Despite receiving a direct invitation to the European closed qualifier, few analysts gave FPX any chance of advancing. The HLTV-ranked #17 squad faced a brutal gauntlet featuring established powerhouses like FaZe Clan, BIG, and G2 Esports. What made their achievement extraordinary was securing three consecutive 2-1 series victories against superior opponents, defying all expectations.

Their journey commenced with a crucial play-in victory over SKADE, setting up a high-stakes confrontation against German organization BIG. The series unfolded as a tactical chess match where both squads narrowly secured victories on their preferred maps. Game three witnessed Asger “farlig” Jensen emerge as the decisive factor, delivering a spectacular three-man spray that positioned FunPlus Phoenix at series point. His phenomenal individual display culminated in 59 eliminations against 44 deaths, showcasing the clutch potential that would define FPX’s run.

Building on their momentum from the BIG upset, FPX confronted an even more formidable challenge in G2 Esports. The series started promisingly for the underdogs, who concluded their terrorist side on Train with a commanding 10-5 advantage. Following a dominant 16-6 victory on their map selection, FunPlus Phoenix encountered an unstoppable force in G2’s François “AmaNEk” Delaunay. His breathtaking 19-kill performance generated an astonishing 111.1 damage per round, more than tripling the output of Luka “emi” Vuković and nearly derailing FPX’s qualification hopes.

The final map delivered edge-of-your-seat tension as FPX’s early 6-2 lead gradually diminished to the narrowest possible margin. FPX lurker Jesse “zehN” Linjala erupted when it mattered most, accumulating 31 kills with an incredible 132.3 damage per round. Most impressively, he secured six victories in seven direct confrontations against G2 superstar Nikola “NiKo” Kovač, demonstrating the composure that separates qualifier participants from main event contenders.

FunPlus Phoenix completed their flawless qualifier campaign through the winner’s bracket alongside OG, while G2 Esports continued fighting through the lower bracket, eventually securing their main event position with a victory over mouseports. Intel Extreme Masters Season XVI commences its summer spectacle on June 3, assembling virtually every elite CSGO organization in Europe including Astralis, Heroic, and Gambit Esports for what promises to be an unforgettable tournament.

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