In a dramatic twist of Counter-Strike fate, Complexity Gaming have swept FaZe Clan 2-0 in the PGL Bucharest Swiss Stage, toppling their former teammate Jonathan “EliGE” Jablonowski in the process. The win doesn’t only carry emotional weight – it also marks Complexity’s first Playoff appearance in 2025, following months of instability and doubt.
Credit: Sebastian Pandelache | PGL
The Match that meant more than just qualification
Complexity faced FaZe Clan in the 2-1 pool of the Swiss Stage with a Playoff spot on the line. Despite entering as underdogs and being on the “bad side” of the PGL Bucharest Odds, the North American squad displayed superior coordination and composure on all fronts, taking the series with a clean 2-0 sweep.
Håkon “hallzerk” Fjærli led the charge posting a 1.52 rating and 90.7% KAST throughout the series to shut down his former teammate EliGE, who ended on a negative rating. The Norwegian has been the team’s most impactful player, averaging 1.20 in Bucharest.
This victory against FaZe wasn’t just about advancing – it was a statement of intent.
Credit: Sebastian Pandelache | PGL
Taking Down The Man That Was “Too Good For Them”
EliGE was previously regarded as Complexity’s crown jewel, often carrying the team through inconsistent performances with his individual excellence. Achieving minimal results donning the North American jersey, EliGE eventually transferred to FaZe, suggesting that Complexity’s roster could not support his competitive goals.
The 2-0 result completely changes the narrative considering how dominant the series was. Some might say it’s too early to come into conclusions, but both teams have had over three months integrating their new lineups, so it’s a massive concern for FaZe Clan to drop the ball in such fashion. The win feels even sweeter when it’s on in-game leader Johnny “JT” Theodosiou’s birthday.
Playoff in Bucharest🙏🏽 team is playing fantastic lately, let’s keep the momentum going into the next stage🙌🏽
Big happy birthday to Mr mastermind @JTcsgo Great calls today🧠
— hallzerk (@hallzerk) April 9, 2025
Is North America Back?
Complexity Gaming was left scrambling finding capable replacements for EliGE, and instead, gambled on two relatively unknown players in the form of Danny “cxzi” Strzelczyk and Nick “nicx” Lee. The team endured a 10-match losing streak at the start of the year, and the community was already assuming Complexity had one of the most underwhelming roster shuffles coming into the season.
However, the team removed coach Tiaan “T.C” Coertzen and turned a new leaf. Before their narrow loss to G2 yesterday, Complexity built up a 13-match winning streak and transitioned it to a Playoff berth – the first for the two newest recruits.
While it is premature to declare a full resurgence of North American Counter-Strike, Complexity’s current form is still a promising sign of what’s to come, especially with Jacky “Stewie2K” Yip picking up the mouse again.