The final day of the Group Stage at IEM Katowice 2025 delivered one of the most intense matchups of the tournament, as Eternal Fire faced off against FaZe Clan in the Lower Bracket Finals of Group A.
With a playoff spot and a chance to compete at the legendary Spodek Arena on the line, both teams gave it their all. But in the end, history was made as Eternal Fire emerged victorious, becoming the first Turkish team ever to qualify for the IEM Katowice Playoffs.
A Thrilling Victory Against FaZe Clan
The series kicked off on Anubis, where Eternal Fire displayed sheer dominance, dismantling FaZe with a convincing 13-4 victory. The second map, Nuke, turned into a marathon showdown, pushing both teams to their limits. In an epic four-overtime battle, Eternal Fire closed it out 25-22 in round 47, securing their spot in the playoffs.
Key Highlights of the Match:
- Anubis: Eternal Fire dominates FaZe Clan 13-4.
- Nuke: A four-overtime thriller ends 25-22 in Eternal Fire’s favor.
- First Turkish team ever to reach IEM Katowice Playoffs.
- Historic moment for Turkish esports and CS2.
Image via ESL.
A Landmark Achievement for Turkish Esports
Eternal Fire’s success marks a historic milestone for Turkish Counter-Strike. No Turkish team—or even an individual player—has ever made it this far at IEM Katowice. This achievement is the culmination of years of effort, proving that Turkish CS2 can compete at the highest level.
For Özgür “woxic” Eker, this moment is particularly special. His last appearance at Katowice came in 2020 when he played for MOUZ (formerly mousesports). Meanwhile, İsmailсan “XANTARES” Dörtkardeş was the last Turkish player to compete at Katowice in 2021 with BIG, though he too fell short of the playoffs.
Eternal Fire was created with a vision: to establish Turkish CS on the global stage. Led by experienced veterans and young Turkish talent, the team has finally turned their dream into reality.
Image via Eternal Fire.
What’s Next for Eternal Fire?
With their playoff spot secured, Eternal Fire now sets its sights on the Spodek Arena, where they will face some of the best teams in the world. Regardless of the outcome, their historic journey has already inspired a new generation of Turkish Counter-Strike players.
What This Means for Turkish CS2:
- Elevates Turkish esports on the global stage.
- Inspires future generations of Turkish players.
- Proves that regional teams can compete at the highest level.
Conclusion
Eternal Fire’s triumph at IEM Katowice 2025 is a defining moment for Turkish Counter-Strike. As they prepare for their next challenge in the playoffs, they carry the hopes of an entire nation. Win or lose, their historic run will be remembered as the moment Turkish CS2 arrived on the world stage.
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