G2 Esports has recently undergone significant roster changes, marking a new chapter in their competitive journey. The organization has benched veteran in-game leader Janusz “Snax” Pogorzelski, introduced rising Slovakian talent Matúš “MATYS” Šimko, and appointed Nemanja “huNter-” Kovač as the new in-game leader (IGL). These strategic decisions aim to revitalize the team’s performance and adapt to the evolving dynamics of competitive Counter-Strike 2.
These changes come after a series of departures, including the move of Nikola “NiKo” Kovač to Team Falcons in January 2025 and the trade of Ilya “m0NESY” Osipov to the same organization in April 2025. With these adjustments, G2 Esports is positioning itself for a fresh start, focusing on building a cohesive and dynamic roster for the upcoming season.
Why Was Snax Benched?
Janusz “Snax” Pogorzelski joined G2 Esports in mid-2024, bringing a wealth of experience and leadership to the team. Under his guidance, G2 secured victories at the BLAST Fall Final and BLAST World Final. However, despite these successes, the team faced challenges in maintaining consistent performance, particularly on the T-side. This led G2 to seek a new direction, resulting in Snax being moved to the bench. The organization expressed gratitude for his contributions, acknowledging that the team wouldn’t have achieved their recent successes without him.
The decision to bench Snax was part of a broader strategy to rejuvenate the team’s dynamics. G2’s management recognized the need for a fresh approach to address the inconsistencies observed in their gameplay. By making this change, they aim to foster a more aggressive and adaptable playstyle, aligning with the evolving meta of competitive Counter-Strike 2.
While Snax’s tenure with G2 was marked by significant achievements, the decision to bench him underscores the organization’s commitment to continuous improvement and adaptability in the competitive landscape.
Who Is MATYS and What Does He Bring?
Matúš “MATYS” Šimko is a 21-year-old Slovakian rifler who has garnered attention for his impressive performances with fnatic. Over a year and a half, he maintained a 1.12 rating, showcasing his consistency and skill. His aggressive playstyle and sharp aim have made him a standout player in the European scene, earning him a reputation as a rising star.
Joining G2 Esports, MATYS is expected to inject youthful energy and a fresh perspective into the team’s lineup. His addition aims to bolster the team’s firepower and provide a dynamic approach to their strategies. The organization is optimistic that his integration will lead to a more aggressive and effective playstyle, addressing some of the challenges faced in previous seasons.
MATYS’s transition to G2 represents a significant step in his career, offering him the opportunity to compete at the highest level and contribute to a team with a rich history in competitive Counter-Strike. His performance in the upcoming tournaments will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
huNter- Takes Over as IGL
Nemanja “huNter-” Kovač has been a cornerstone of G2 Esports since 2019, known for his exceptional rifling skills and versatility. In June 2025, reports emerged that huNter- was set to assume the role of in-game leader, a position he had been approached about multiple times since joining the team. Despite initial reluctance, he agreed to take on this leadership role, aiming to guide G2 through a period of transition and growth.
As the new IGL, huNter- is expected to leverage his deep understanding of the team’s dynamics and his strategic acumen to steer G2 toward success. His leadership style is anticipated to be both tactical and motivational, fostering a cohesive and resilient team environment. The move signifies a shift in G2’s strategic approach, with a focus on adaptability and innovation.
Fans and analysts are eager to see how huNter-‘s leadership will influence G2’s performance in upcoming tournaments. His ability to adapt to this new role will be crucial in determining the team’s trajectory in the competitive scene.
How Will G2’s Style Change?
The integration of MATYS and the appointment of huNter- as IGL are poised to bring significant changes to G2 Esports’ playstyle. With MATYS’s aggressive rifling and huNter-‘s strategic leadership, the team is expected to adopt a more dynamic and aggressive approach. This shift aims to enhance their T-side performance and overall adaptability, addressing previous inconsistencies.
Additionally, the departure of key players like NiKo and m0NESY necessitates a reevaluation of team strategies and roles. G2’s management is focused on building a cohesive unit that can synergize effectively, leveraging the strengths of each member to create a formidable lineup. The emphasis will be on flexibility, communication, and rapid adaptation to opponents’ strategies.
These changes reflect G2’s commitment to evolving with the competitive landscape, ensuring they remain a top contender in the Counter-Strike 2 scene. The success of this new approach will depend on the team’s ability to integrate these changes seamlessly and execute them under pressure.
What’s Next: Schedule and Expectations
With the new roster in place, G2 Esports is set to compete in the upcoming IEM Cologne 2025, scheduled from July 23 to August 3. This tournament will serve as the first major test for the revamped lineup, providing an opportunity to assess the team’s cohesion and performance under competitive conditions. Fans are eager to see how MATYS adapts to his new role and how huNter-‘s leadership influences the team’s dynamics.
Looking a, G2’s expectations are high. The organization aims to leverage the fresh talent and leadership to secure top finishes in upcoming tournaments, with a long-term goal of reclaiming their position at the pinnacle of competitive Counter-Strike 2. The success of this roster overhaul will be closely monitored, with particular attention to the team’s adaptability and growth over the coming months.
In conclusion, G2 Esports’ recent roster changes signify a bold step toward revitalizing the team’s competitive edge. By integrating emerging talent and embracing new leadership, the organization is positioning itself for a promising future in the Counter-Strike 2 arena. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these changes translate into performance on the global stage.