REZ on Cache Return: “I Won IEM Oakland on That Map”

Swedish Counter-Strike veteran Fredrik 'REZ' Sterner has shared his thoughts on the return of Cache, GamerLegion’s recent progress, and the team’s ambitions ahead of upcoming top-tier events, following their strong opening performance at BLAST Rivals 2026.

GamerLegion began their campaign with a notable victory over FURIA, a result that REZ described as both important and somewhat unexpected given the team’s recent struggles in lower-tier competitions. He admitted that the squad did not anticipate receiving an invitation to the event due to their ranking, which made the opportunity even more significant. According to REZ, the win serves as a much-needed confidence boost after a difficult stretch of results and provides momentum heading into more demanding matches. 

The match itself did not start smoothly for GamerLegion. REZ acknowledged that nerves played a major role early on, with the team struggling to implement what they had practiced. However, as the series progressed, their level improved significantly. By the second and third maps, GamerLegion were able to execute their strategies effectively, showcasing the results of their preparation and underlining their potential to compete at a higher level. 

This improvement is especially important in the context of the season. The team has spent much of the year competing in smaller events and working their way back toward the elite tier. REZ emphasized that BLAST Rivals represents an opportunity to prove that GamerLegion belongs among top teams again. He also highlighted the importance of gaining stage experience, particularly for younger teammates such as hypex, noting that exposure to arena matches will be crucial for their long-term development. 

Looking ahead, REZ pointed to an upcoming clash with Natus Vincere as a key test. Rather than focusing solely on the result, he stressed the importance of replicating practice performance on stage and building consistency as a unit. This approach reflects GamerLegion’s broader goal of steady improvement rather than short-term results, especially with the Major on the horizon. 

Confidence, according to REZ, will be a decisive factor in the team’s trajectory. Entering major tournaments after a series of poor results can be damaging, while wins like the one over FURIA help establish belief within the lineup. He described the current event as an ideal platform for growth, allowing the team to refine its playstyle and build cohesion under pressure. 

A major talking point in the interview was the return of Cache to Counter-Strike. As one of the more experienced players in the squad, REZ is among the few who have extensive history on the map. He expressed clear enthusiasm about its comeback and even suggested he would welcome it replacing Dust2 in the active map pool. For REZ, Cache is more than just a battleground—it carries personal significance dating back to his early career. 

That emotional connection stems from IEM Oakland 2017, where REZ, then playing for Ninjas in Pyjamas, delivered a standout performance and earned the MVP award while helping his team secure the title against top opposition. Reflecting on that achievement, he noted that winning a major event on Cache cemented its place as one of his favorite maps. 

The map’s return has also created an interesting generational dynamic within GamerLegion. Younger players on the roster lack experience on Cache, leading to discussions about fundamental approaches and setups. REZ described lighthearted moments during practice where veterans had to explain basic concepts of the map to newer teammates, highlighting the gap between eras in Counter-Strike. 

Beyond the map pool changes, REZ also commented on gameplay adjustments following recent updates, particularly noting differences in weapon spray behavior. He explained that adapting to these changes requires time, as players must adjust muscle memory developed over years. Despite these challenges, he remains optimistic that players will gradually adapt as they gain more experience under the new conditions. 

Overall, the interview paints a picture of a team in transition but moving in the right direction. GamerLegion are aiming to re-establish themselves among the top contenders, combining experienced leadership from players like REZ with the energy and potential of younger talent. With renewed confidence, a meaningful victory under their belt, and a favorable environment for growth, the team is positioning itself as a dangerous outsider heading into the most important events of the season.