BIG staged a historic Mirage comeback, overturning a dominant NRG CT side to force overtime and win 16-12, powered by standout performances from tabseN and faveN.

tabseN and faveN also delivered pivotal 1v2 clutches, helping BIG swing the momentum and build an early 8-4 lead before taking the map in overtime.

NRG had earlier surged with a dramatic 12-0 run against BIG and ultimately won the series 2-1, with gr1ks praising faveN for crucial plays and emotional support that helped turn the match.

The victory sent BIG into Stage 2 of the IEM Cologne Major 2026, while ending NRG’s tournament run, drawing intense analysis about the choke being among Major history’s worst.

gr1ks described extreme pressure during the series, including a moment on the third map when he felt unwell, yet the team maintained focus to close out.

Coverage also references HLTV reports on BIG’s comeback and situates the matchup within the larger IEM Cologne Major 2026 Stage 1 context.

Gleb “gr1ks” Gazin spoke about debut-era nerves during NRG’s comeback win over BIG, detailing anxiety and a halftime mindset shift.

The post-match interview emphasized the home-country significance for BIG and tabseN, highlighting the pressure and importance of advancing to Stage 2.

Key quotes underscore the mindset shift from doubt to belief, the clutch plays—especially faveN’s 1v2—and the takeaway that anything is possible under pressure.

Editorial notes note that BIG benefited from NRG’s missteps but showed potential as a major Stage 2 threat, with room to refine and possibly lean on a stronger Grim presence.

On Nuke, nitr0 led NRG with strong opening kills and tactical plays, while BIG answered with decisive AWP moments and clutch plays from gr1ks.

JDC served as a belief-inspiring presence from the start, urging rounds one by one as comeback momentum built for BIG.