NAVI to Face Spirit and Falcons to Take on G2 — First-Round Matchups of the Third Group Stage at IEM Cologne Major 2026 Confirmed

The organizers of IEM Cologne Major 2026 for CS2 have revealed the full schedule for the opening round of the tournament's third group stage. One of the most anticipated matchups of the day will see Natus Vincere go head-to-head with Team Spirit in what promises to be a thrilling clash between two title contenders.

Fans can also look forward to several other high-profile matchups in the first round of the stage:

• Team Vitality vs. FUT Esports

• Team Falcons vs. G2 Esports

• The MongolZ vs. BetBoom Team

The third group stage will be a crucial test for the remaining teams, with every victory bringing them one step closer to the playoffs and every mistake becoming increasingly costly.

IEM Cologne Major 2026 is taking place in Germany from June 2 to June 21, with the world's best teams competing for the championship title and a $1.25 million prize pool.

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Which opening-round matchup are you most excited to watch? Can NAVI overcome Spirit, and will G2 be able to stop the ambitious Falcons?