Monte advanced to Stage 3 of the IEM Cologne Major, while paiN Gaming was eliminated from the tournament

Monte won its match in the second stage of the IEM Cologne Major 2026 and advanced to the third stage of the tournament, while paiN Gaming exited the event.

On the first map, Nuke, the Ukrainian club managed to outplay their opponents, winning 13-5. On the decisive map, Dust2, Jack “Gizmy” von Sprekelsen’s team once again proved stronger than their opponent and took the series (13-11).

Thus, Monte advanced to the third stage of the IEM Cologne Major 2026, while paiN Gaming was eliminated from the tournament.

Stage 2 of the IEM Cologne Major 2026 is taking place from June 6 to 9 in Cologne. A total of 32 teams are participating in the tournament, competing for a prize pool of $1.25 million. The tournament is divided into four stages: Stage 1, Stage 2, Stage 3, and the playoffs.