HeavyGod Carries G2 Past paiN at PGL Cluj-Napoca — Elimination Match Recap, Stats & Quotes

17.02.2026 - 06:40

HeavyGod Carries G2 Past paiN at PGL Cluj-Napoca — Elimination Match Recap, Stats & Quotes

G2 survived elimination at PGL Cluj-Napoca after defeating paiN 2-0 in a high-pressure series that showcased a standout performance from Nikita “HeavyGod” Martynenko.

The European squad won Inferno (13-10) and Mirage (13-9), ending paiN’s run while keeping their own playoff hopes alive after a difficult start to the tournament.

This victory was crucial for G2, who entered the match in the 0-2 pool following losses to Vitality and PARIVISION.

HeavyGod dominates the server with MVP-level stats

The defining storyline of the series was HeavyGod’s individual impact.

Series stats

44–25 K-D

1.87 rating across the series

2.35 rating on Inferno

The opening map, Inferno, was particularly decisive. HeavyGod repeatedly shut down paiN’s attempts to build momentum, giving G2 the edge in key late-round situations.

Mirage followed a similar script. With the game still competitive late, HeavyGod closed the map with two clutch rounds, sealing the sweep and eliminating the Brazilian side.

This performance aligns with his recent mindset shift shared in interviews:

“My focus is to win trophies.”

The statement highlights the growing expectations around HeavyGod as one of G2’s key impact players in 2026.

Why this match mattered for G2’s tournament run

G2’s victory cannot be viewed in isolation. It came after a difficult start to the event.

Earlier results in Cluj

Loss to Vitality

Loss to PARIVISION → pushed G2 into elimination matches

The defeat to PARIVISION placed G2 in a win-or-go-home scenario, dramatically raising the stakes of the paiN match.

This context makes the win especially important: G2 shifted from being on the brink of elimination to staying alive in the Swiss stage.

paiN’s early exit reflects roster growing pains

For paiN, the elimination continues a challenging start to 2026.

The team entered the season with roster changes and has openly discussed the need for time to develop synergy and structure.

In previous interviews, paiN players highlighted this adjustment period:

“We haven’t been able to finalize our playbook… We’re still trying to get on the same page.” — piriajr

“It’s not the same as in Brazil… It’s easier there.” — vsm

The Cluj result reinforces that message: the squad still has potential, but consistency at tier-one events remains a work in progress.

G2 leadership and long-term ambitions

The win also connects to G2’s broader evolution as a team.

In earlier coverage, huNter- explained his role in leadership and team direction:

“I can share my experience with others and help the team more.”

Combined with HeavyGod’s recent performances, G2 appear to be transitioning into a roster focused on long-term trophy contention rather than short-term results.