G2 Esports has recently undergone significant roster changes, marking a new chapter in their Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) 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 moves aim to rejuvenate the team’s dynamics and enhance their competitive edge.
These developments come after a series of departures, including the transfer of Nikola “NiKo” Kovač and Ilya “m0NESY” Osipov to Team Falcons, signaling a period of transition for G2 Esports. The integration of MATYS and the leadership shift to huNter- are pivotal steps in reshaping the team’s identity and performance in the CS2 arena.
G2 Esports Bench Snax: A Strategic Shift
On July 11, 2025, G2 Esports officially announced the benching of Janusz “Snax” Pogorzelski, ending his year-long tenure with the team. The organization expressed gratitude for Snax’s contributions, highlighting his role in securing victories at the BLAST Fall Final and BLAST World Final. Despite these successes, the decision reflects G2’s desire to explore new strategies and team dynamics.
Snax joined G2 in mid-2024, bringing experience and leadership to the roster. Under his guidance, the team achieved notable milestones, including a second-place finish at the Esports World Cup and top-four placements at major tournaments. However, with recent roster changes and the departure of key players, G2 is seeking a fresh direction to reclaim their position at the top of the CS2 scene.
The benching of Snax also paves the way for huNter- to assume the IGL role, a move that has been anticipated for some time. This transition is expected to bring a new tactical approach and leadership style to the team, aligning with G2’s vision for the future.
Introducing MATYS: A Rising Star Joins G2
Matúš “MATYS” Šimko, a 21-year-old Slovakian rifler, has been added to G2’s active roster. Known for his aggressive playstyle and sharp aim, MATYS has demonstrated impressive performances during his tenure with fnatic, averaging a 1.12 rating over a year and a half. His addition is seen as a strategic move to bolster G2’s firepower and bring a fresh perspective to the team’s dynamics.
MATYS’s transition to G2 marks a significant step in his career, moving from a supporting role in fnatic to a leading position in one of the premier CS2 teams. His adaptability and skill set are expected to complement the existing roster, providing the team with a versatile and dynamic player capable of making an immediate impact.
The decision to bring MATYS on board also reflects G2’s commitment to nurturing young talent and integrating them into their competitive framework. His integration into the team is anticipated to enhance G2’s strategic depth and overall performance in upcoming tournaments.
huNter- Takes Over as In-Game Leader
Nemanja “huNter-” Kovač, a long-standing member of G2 Esports, has stepped into the role of in-game leader. This move comes after a period of speculation and internal discussions regarding leadership within the team. huNter- has been with G2 since 2019, contributing significantly to the team’s successes and growth.
In a September 2024 interview, huNter- revealed that G2 had approached him multiple times to assume the IGL role, but he had initially declined. However, with recent roster changes and the departure of key players, huNter- has accepted the responsibility, aiming to bring a new tactical approach and leadership style to the team.
As IGL, huNter- is expected to leverage his extensive experience and deep understanding of the game to guide G2 through the challenges of the CS2 competitive landscape. His leadership is seen as a crucial factor in the team’s efforts to rebuild and achieve success in upcoming tournaments.
Impact on G2’s Competitive Strategy
The benching of Snax and the introduction of MATYS and huNter- signify a strategic overhaul for G2 Esports. These changes are expected to influence the team’s playstyle, communication, and overall performance. The addition of a young, aggressive rifler like MATYS is likely to inject energy and dynamism into the team’s offensive strategies.
With huNter- assuming the IGL role, G2 is anticipated to adopt a more cohesive and structured approach to their gameplay. His leadership is expected to foster better coordination and decision-making, addressing some of the inconsistencies observed in previous seasons. The team’s adaptability to these changes will be crucial in determining their success in the evolving CS2 competitive scene.
Fans and analysts are keenly observing how these roster changes will manifest in G2’s upcoming matches, particularly at the IEM Cologne tournament scheduled from July 23 to August 3, 2025. The team’s performance in this event will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of their new lineup and strategic direction.
Looking A: G2’s Future Prospects
As G2 Esports embarks on this new chapter, the integration of MATYS and the leadership of huNter- present both challenges and opportunities. The team’s ability to adapt to these changes and synergize effectively will be pivotal in their quest to reclaim their position among the elite teams in the CS2 circuit.
The upcoming tournaments, including IEM Cologne, will serve as critical benchmarks for G2’s progress and cohesion. Fans and stakeholders are hopeful that these strategic moves will lead to a resurgence in the team’s performance, bringing them closer to their championship aspirations.
Conclusion: A New Era for G2 Esports
The recent roster changes within G2 Esports mark a significant shift in the organization’s approach to the CS2 competitive scene. By benching Snax, introducing MATYS, and appointing huNter- as the new IGL, G2 is signaling a commitment to innovation and growth. These decisions reflect a strategic vision aimed at revitalizing the team’s dynamics and enhancing their competitive edge.
As G2 prepares for upcoming tournaments, the integration of these new elements will be closely scrutinized. The team’s ability to adapt and perform under this new configuration will determine their trajectory in the CS2 landscape. Fans and analysts alike are eager to witness how G2’s revamped roster will translate into success on the international stage.