CS: GO IEM Cologne 2022: NAVI vs Astralis predictions

As the first day of the IEM Cologne 2022 playoffs concluded, four of the best CS: GO teams in the tournament have sealed their spot in the semi-finals, edging closer to a title victory. Natus Vincere will take on Astralis in the first semi-finals matchup to reach the Grand Finals of the tournament.

NAVI claimed their spot in the semi-finals after enjoying a flawless run at the IEM Cologne 2022 Group Stage. Astralis will join them in the tie as a result of their victory over MOUZ in the tournament's quarter-finals.

The victor of NAVI vs Astralis will meet the winner of FaZe Clan vs Movistar Riders in the Grand Finals of IEM Cologne 2022, scheduled to be held at the LANXESS Arena on Sunday, July 17 - 7.30 PM IST/ 7.00 AM PDT/ 4.00 PM CEST.

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NAVI vs Astralis - Who will enter the Grand Finals of CS: GO's IEM Cologne 2022

Predictions

Due to their incredible performance in the IEM Cologne 2022 Group Stage, NAVI will enter this semi-finals matchup as the higher seed. However, with a remarkable victory over MOUZ, Astralis are strongly in contention for a Grand Finals spot.

Both NAVI and Astralis have gone through roster changes that have affected their progress in recent months. However, both teams appear to have found their spark with their new members, as seen from their recent performances.

With victories over MOUZ, Ninjas in Pyjamas and Movistar Riders, NAVI maintained a 3-0 run in the tournament, fielding a roster that is vying for a trophy after their recent success. Astralis, on the other hand, defeated FURIA, Cloud9 and MOUZ, while losing to FaZe Clan, keeping a 3-1 record.

A successful performance at this tournament will be the ideal result for both NAVI and Astralis before they compete in the ESL Pro League Season 16 next month. Fans of both teams are excited for this matchup, as they get to witness two of CS: GO's top contenders battle it out on the big stage.

Head-to-head

Natus Vincere and Astralis have faced each other twice in 2022. Their encounter in the BLAST Premier Spring Groups 2022 was a best-of-one matchup that ended in Astralis' favor. Later on in the ESL Pro League Season 15, both teams fought off in a best-of-three matchup which resulted in NAVI winning by a 2-1 margin.

Recent results

NAVI has been one of the most successful CS: GO teams in recent times. Although the team has been going through a rough time since the start of the year, their recent performances suggest that NAVI might be on their way back to the pinnacle of pro CS: GO.

NAVI's most recent tournament appearance was at the BLAST Premier Spring Finals 2022, where they emerged as winners. Prior to that, they attempted to repeat their CS: GO Major success at PGL Antwerp 2022. A defeat to FaZe Clan, however, pushed them to second place.

Astralis has lesser achievements than NAVI to highlight in 2022. They kicked off the year with a series of mid-table finishes. Their performances in the recent Roobet Cup, however, helped them claim a third to fourth spot in the tournament.

Although Astralis has had a tough year so far, their most recent form suggests they're ready to add more silverware to their collection.

Potential lineups

Natus Vincere

Oleksandr "s1mple" Kostyliev
Denis "electroNic" Sharipov
Ilya "Perfecto" Zalutskiy
Valerii "b1t" Vakhovskyi
Viktor "sdy" Orudzhev
Andrii "B1ad3" Horodenskyi (Coach)

Astralis

Andreas "Xyp9x" Højsleth
Lukas "gla1ve" Rossander
Kristian "k0nfig" Wienecke
Benjamin "blameF" Bremer
Asger "farlig" Jensen
Martin "trace" Heldt (Coach)

When and where to watch

CS:GO fans can watch the IEM Cologne 2022 live by heading to ESL CS:GO's official accounts on YouTube and Twitch or through various official watch parties held by players and streamers all over the world. Natus Vincere will take on Astralis on Saturday, July 16 at 7.00 PM IST/ 6.30 AM PDT/ 3.30 PM CEST.

About the author

Adarsh is an Esports and Gaming writer at Sportskeeda specializing in FPS games like Valorant, Counter-Strike, and Overwatch 2. After joining Sportskeeda in October 2021, he has authored over 750 stories that collectively have garnered 1.5 million views. By meticulously following reputable sources and enhancing his knowledge of the topics he covers, Adarsh eliminates any margin for error, ensuring his readers receive the most accurate information. As a Journalism graduate, these practices are skills he has honed through practical experience.

In addition to his role as a gaming journalist, Adarsh managed the Valorant, Counter-Strike 2 (CS2), and Overwatch 2 departments at Sportskeeda for nearly two years. He also serves as an Esports and Gaming Editor, boasting over a year of experience in this capacity. A significant milestone in his career involves attending various international Valorant events and conducting more than 150 interviews with some of the top talents in esports.

Adarsh's gaming journey began at the age of 3 when his parents introduced him to Roadrash. While he was too young to play independently, his parents assisted him in savoring every aspect of the game. Fast forward twenty years, Adarsh continues to exhibit a passion for video games, particularly competitive and tactical FPS titles. As a result of his fondness for football, he is a devoted fan of the EA Sports FIFA or FC series as well.

During his leisure time, Adarsh indulges in reading books and watching sports. A passionate supporter of Manchester United, he is an ardent football enthusiast. He also takes pleasure in watching basketball, tennis, MMA, and poker, actively participating in these sports as well. Furthermore, Adarsh harbors a deep-seated love for cinema, enjoying the exploration and dissection of its complexities.

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Edited by Sijo Samuel Paul

NAVI vs Astralis at CS: GO IEM Cologne 2022 - Predictions, head-to-head, livestream details and more