G2 Esports has recently undergone significant roster changes, marking a new chapter in their Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) journey. The team has benched veteran in-game leader Janusz “Snax” Pogorzelski and introduced Slovakian rifler Matúš “MATYS” Šimko to the active lineup. Additionally, Nemanja “huNter-” Kovač has assumed the role of in-game leader (IGL), signaling a strategic shift for the organization.
These adjustments come after a series of underwhelming performances in 2025, prompting G2 to reevaluate their team composition and leadership structure. The upcoming IEM Cologne tournament, scheduled from July 23 to August 3, will serve as the debut for this revamped roster.
Snax’s Departure and Team Restructuring
Janusz “Snax” Pogorzelski joined G2 in July 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 in 2024. However, despite these successes, the team faced challenges in 2025, failing to advance past the group stages in several major tournaments, including PGL Astana 2025 and IEM Dallas 2025. This led to the decision to bench Snax, as G2 sought a new direction to enhance their competitive edge. The organization expressed gratitude for Snax’s contributions, acknowledging his pivotal role in their previous successes.
Introduction of MATYS to the Active Roster
In place of Snax, G2 has enlisted Matúš “MATYS” Šimko, a rising Slovakian talent known for his sharp aim and adaptability. MATYS’s addition is expected to inject fresh energy and skill into the team’s lineup. His performance in domestic leagues has garnered attention, making him a promising prospect for G2’s future endeavors. The decision to bring MATYS on board reflects G2’s commitment to nurturing young talent and building a team capable of competing at the highest levels.
huNter- Assumes In-Game Leader Role
Nemanja “huNter-” Kovač, a seasoned rifler and long-time member of G2, has stepped into the role of in-game leader. This strategic move aims to leverage huNter-‘s deep understanding of the game and the team’s dynamics to foster a more cohesive and effective playstyle. His leadership is anticipated to bring a more flexible and dynamic approach to G2’s strategies, moving away from traditional IGL structures. The transition to huNter- as IGL signifies G2’s focus on adaptability and innovation in their gameplay.
Impact on Team Dynamics and Playstyle
The reshuffling of roles within G2 is poised to significantly alter the team’s dynamics and playstyle. With huNter- leading, the team is expected to adopt a more fluid and aggressive strategy, capitalizing on individual skill and synergy. MATYS’s inclusion adds depth to the roster, providing additional firepower and versatility. The absence of a traditional IGL may encourage players to take on more responsibility and initiative, potentially leading to a more unpredictable and challenging team to face. This shift reflects a broader trend in the esports industry towards flexible and player-driven team structures.
Fan Reactions and Community Expectations
The G2 community has expressed a mix of excitement and curiosity regarding the new roster changes. Fans are eager to see how huNter- will adapt to his new leadership role and how MATYS will integrate into the team’s playstyle. There is a sense of optimism about the potential for renewed success, tempered by the understanding that such transitions may require time to fully materialize. The community’s support will be crucial as G2 embarks on this new phase, with expectations high for a strong performance at IEM Cologne.
Looking A: IEM Cologne and Future Prospects
The upcoming IEM Cologne tournament represents a significant opportunity for G2 to showcase their revamped lineup. The event will serve as a litmus test for the effectiveness of the recent changes and the team’s ability to compete against top-tier opponents. Success at IEM Cologne could validate the strategic decisions made by G2’s management and set the tone for the remainder of the 2025 season. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching to see if the new roster can deliver on the high expectations set before them.
G2 Esports’ recent roster changes, including the benching of Snax, the addition of MATYS, and huNter- assuming the IGL role, mark a bold step towards revitalizing the team’s competitive presence. These decisions reflect a strategic shift aimed at fostering adaptability, nurturing young talent, and embracing a more flexible team structure. As G2 prepares for IEM Cologne, the esports community eagerly anticipates how these changes will translate into performance on the international stage. The coming months will be pivotal in determining whether this new direction will lead G2 back to the pinnacle of competitive Counter-Strike.