FaZe Stun G2 to Reach BLAST Rivals Fort Worth 2026 Semifinals

FaZe delivered one of the biggest surprises of the BLAST Rivals Fort Worth 2026 playoffs by eliminating G2 and advancing to the semifinals after a dramatic three-map series. Despite entering the match as underdogs and struggling with inconsistent form leading up to the event, FaZe managed to outlast one of the tournament favorites in a tightly contested battle that swung back and forth until the very end. 

The series began on Dust2, where neither side could establish full control. The first half ended evenly at 6-6, largely due to a number of unexpected rounds going FaZe’s way, including key anti-eco conversions and clutch situations. Helvijs “broky” Saukants played a crucial role in keeping FaZe competitive, contributing to multiple turnaround moments that prevented G2 from building a solid lead. 

After switching sides, FaZe found better rhythm on the CT side and edged ahead, eventually closing the map 13-11. Although G2 showed flashes of dominance, particularly through individual plays from Álvaro “SunPayus” García, they were unable to capitalize on several advantageous situations, which proved costly in the long run. 

G2 responded strongly on Ancient, where they looked far more composed and decisive. Starting on the T side, they stormed to an 8-0 lead, showcasing coordinated executes and strong mid-round calls. FaZe managed to secure only a few rounds before halftime and never fully recovered. Even though FaZe attempted a comeback from an 11-4 deficit—with a notable clutch from Russel “Twistzz” Van Dulken—the gap was too large, and G2 closed the map convincingly to level the series. 

The deciding map, Mirage, turned into a chaotic and highly entertaining contest. Early on, both teams traded rounds without gaining a clear advantage, though G2 eventually built a 7-5 lead heading into the second half. They extended that advantage after winning the pistol round, seemingly putting themselves in a strong position to secure the series. 

However, the turning point came late in regulation when FaZe pulled off a remarkable 2v5 clutch involving Twistzz and David “frozen” Čerňanský. That single moment shifted the momentum entirely. What had looked like a near-certain victory for G2 suddenly unraveled, as FaZe capitalized on the psychological edge and pushed the map into overtime.

In overtime, FaZe maintained their composure and completed the comeback, winning Mirage 16-13 and sealing the series 2-1. The victory was especially impressive considering G2’s strong recent form and higher ranking, as well as FaZe’s inconsistent results prior to the event. 

Individually, frozen stood out as FaZe’s most impactful player across the series, delivering consistent fragging and key multi-kill rounds. He was supported by solid performances from broky and Jakub “jcobbb” Pietruszewski, while Twistzz contributed crucial clutches at pivotal moments. On the G2 side, SunPayus and Nemanja “huNter-” Kovač had strong showings, but their efforts were not enough to prevent the upset. 

This result sent FaZe into the semifinals, where the level of competition would only increase. Although their run eventually ended against Natus Vincere, the victory over G2 remains a highlight of their campaign in Fort Worth and a reminder of their potential when firing on all cylinders. 

Overall, the match encapsulated the unpredictable nature of top-tier Counter-Strike, where momentum swings, clutch plays, and mental resilience often determine the outcome more than raw firepower alone.