3DMAX eliminate G2 to punch ticket to ESL Pro League playoffs

3DMAX eliminate G2 to punch ticket to ESL Pro League playoffs

3DMAX secured a hard-fought 2–0 victory over G2 Esports in the Swiss Stage Round 5 of ESL Pro League Season 22, sending the French side into the playoffs while eliminating G2 from contention. The match was a do-or-die clash between two teams at 2–2, meaning that the winner advances, and the loser goes home.

The final map scores were:

• Inferno – 3DMAX 13, G2 5

• Overpass – 3DMAX 13, G2 8

With this result, 3DMAX’s path forward is secured; G2’s run in EPL S22 ends here.

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Match breakdown & analysis

Map picks & map order

In that Swiss Round 5 setting, both teams were desperate to survive. 3DMAX removed Mirage from consideration; G2 struck Nuke. The decider maps played out as:

1. Inferno – 3DMAX pick

2. Overpass – G2 pick

Map 1: Inferno (13–5 to 3DMAX)

3DMAX came out sharp on Inferno, controlling pacing and economy. Their T side pressure and mid control allowed them to dictate the tempo early. On defense, they held up cleanly when G2 attempted retakes. G2 struggled to find entries and traded poorly, making them unable to contest crucial rounds.

Map 2: Overpass (13–8 to 3DMAX)

Overpass was more balanced, but 3DMAX maintained mid-round discipline and kept fights in favorable positions. G2 made several attempts to claw back with aggressive plays, but 3DMAX’s rotations and utility usage kept G2 from gaining momentum. Ultimately, 3DMAX closed the series with composure.

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Context & significance

3DMAX’s rising momentum

This win is yet another signs of 3DMAX’s upward trajectory. Earlier in the tournament, they had already sent FaZe to the elimination zone with a 2–0 win, even amid FaZe’s roster shuffle controversy involving rain’s forced reinstatement. 

Their path, however, has been far from easy. The draw put them against tough opponents, and G2 represented one of the steeper hills to climb. 3DMAX’s ability to win in pressure-filled matches suggests increasing depth and confidence in their tactical approach.

G2’s tumble

G2 entered this match with a 2–2 record, hoping to reach the playoffs. Their elimination underscores the volatility of the Swiss format—no margin for error. For G2, the exit is a disappointing turn for a storied organization that’s expected to compete deep in every event.

This also continues a pattern: G2 has seen tough performances under pressure in recent tournaments. Their stock in high-stakes matches is coming under scrutiny.

Broader tournament implications

• Playoff bracket shaping: 3DMAX now joins the field of eight in the playoffs, altering the bracket dynamics and matchups ahead.

• Survival vs elimination intensity: At Stage 2 of EPL, teams at 2–2 must win to survive. The pressure to perform in these rounds can elevate or crumble lineups, and 3DMAX showed they thrive under stress.

• Proof of depth: Smaller or less celebrated teams proving they can upset heavyweights (like G2) speaks to increased parity in CS2.