The highly anticipated debut of 100 Thieves’ revamped Counter-Strike 2 roster unfolded during the IEM Atlanta Global Open Qualifier, where the team made it through the initial rounds only to be unexpectedly eliminated by MOUZ’s junior squad, MOUZ NXT. The match concluded with a 13-8 result, leaving many fans surprised at the setback.
After advancing from the first round without having to play, 100 Thieves secured a smooth victory in the second round and dominated an inexperienced team named QueenConso with a 13-4 win in the third round. Just when the momentum appeared to be on their side, MOUZ NXT’s impressive play led to a disappointing loss on the map Dust2.
It’s important for fans to keep the context in mind: the Head of CS Operations emphasized prior to the qualifier that this event should be seen as a “soft debut.” It was an online qualifier, with the team’s major aspirations focusing on upcoming LAN competitions, starting with the Roman Imperium Cup V in Portugal on February 19.