9z vs G2 Prediction 10 September 2026
π At FISSURE PLAYGROUND, weβre set for a showdown as South American side 9z look to pull off an upset against European powerhouse G2. The best-of-three format leaves little room for error, and while G2βs quality is clear, we expect 9z to put up a fight-especially on the second map, where they have a strong track record of high totals. Still, G2βs class and experience should prove decisive over the series.
Head-to-Head
π These teams have met twice, with G2 coming out on top both times. In June 2024 at IEM Dallas, the Samurai clinched a 2-0 victory, while earlier that April at IEM Chengdu, they edged out a 13-10 win. Both encounters were tightly contested, but G2 consistently closed out the maps with authority. Since then, both lineups have undergone changes, yet the psychological edge still appears to be with the favorites.

9z Team Overview
The South American squad head into this match off the back of a heavy defeat to MIBR (0-2) in the group stage. Prior to that, however, they convincingly dispatched 5star (2-0) and put up a respectable fight against Magic (1-2) at the EWC. This team have struggled with consistency, losing four of their last five matches-most of them by a wide margin. Still, 9z show strong trends on map two: the total has gone over 18.5 rounds in 11 of their last 12 games, and they've covered the +6.5 round handicap on map two in 11 out of 12. Their main issue is the opening map-they've dropped the first map in five of their last six outings, making them vulnerable in fast-paced series.
Match Results: 9z

G2 Team Overview
The βSamuraiβ are currently going through a rough patch, having lost two of their last three matches-falling to Astralis (1-2) and Team Falcons (0-2) before bouncing back with a 2-1 victory over BIG in their second outing at FISSURE PLAYGROUND. While the team boasts impressive individual talent, they continue to struggle with inconsistency at the start of matches: G2 have dropped the opening map in four consecutive series, which is a worrying trend. On the stats front, G2 are showing strong patterns on the totals market-under 22.5 rounds on the first map has hit in 13 straight matches, while over 19.5 rounds on the second map has landed in each of their last seven games. Historically, G2 have dominated head-to-head clashes against 9z, and that psychological edge remains firmly in their favor.
Match Results: G2
β Editorβs Prediction
Despite G2βs shaky start, their pedigree and strong head-to-head record against 9z leave little doubt about the outcome of this series. That said, we donβt expect a walkover-9z, particularly on the second map, have what it takes to put up a fight. Over the course of the match, however, G2βs quality should prevail. The main pick: G2 to win the series.
