Ahead of the final day of Stake Ranked Episode 2, the Counter-Strike community has shifted its attention not only to the fight for the trophy but also to the increasingly complicated race for the final direct invitations to Esports World Cup 2026. Ranking expert Jesper “Udknud” Larsen outlined why the upcoming match between FaZe and Ninjas in Pyjamas could have a direct impact on who secures one of the last available EWC spots.
FaZe Are Fighting for the Final EWC Spot
In his post, Udknud explained that the lower-bracket final between FaZe and NiP carries enormous importance for the VRS qualification race. According to him, if FaZe defeat Ninjas in Pyjamas, they will overtake Monte in the Valve Regional Standings and move into the final EWC invitation position. The analyst also noted that even a subsequent loss to magic in the grand final would not be enough to push FaZe back behind Monte.
If FaZe defeats NiP they will overtake Monte for the last EWC invite.
Udknud emphasized that qualifying for EWC could be extremely valuable for FaZe because the team is unlikely to reach the top 12 of the July rankings. A strong result at the event could significantly improve their position ahead of future Major qualification races.
read more
Monte Will Be Cheering for NiP
Udknud also highlighted an unusual situation involving Monte. If his projections prove correct, the Ukrainian organization will have a direct interest in seeing Ninjas in Pyjamas defeat FaZe. A FaZe victory could potentially cost Monte their place among the teams receiving direct invitations to Esports World Cup 2026. As a result, the lower-bracket final has effectively become an indirect battle between FaZe and Monte for the last available EWC spot.
magic’s Run Has Changed the Picture
The discussion became even more interesting after comments from former professional player Martin “STYKO” Styk. Following magic’s victory over NiP, STYKO stated that the team had already secured an Esports World Cup invitation regardless of what happens during the final day of the tournament.
That means much of the remaining intrigue now revolves around the teams fighting for the final positions below them in the rankings. The situation has also sparked extensive debate across social media, with fans discussing regional slots, future ranking updates, and how the results of Stake Ranked could affect invitations to upcoming tournaments.
FaZe Stay Alive in Barcelona
While the ranking discussion dominated social media, FaZe still had business to take care of on the server. The European squad defeated Sharks 2-0 (13-9 Ancient, 13-8 Mirage) to advance to the lower-bracket final. Jakub “jcobbb” Pietruszewski was the standout performer, finishing the series with an impressive 1.61 rating. The victory guarantees FaZe a top-three finish at Stake Ranked Episode 2 and keeps their EWC hopes alive heading into the most important match of their tournament run.
read more
What’s Next?
Only two matches remain at Stake Ranked Episode 2. FaZe and Ninjas in Pyjamas will first battle for a place in the grand final, where magic are already waiting. However, for many teams and fans, the bigger storyline is no longer the trophy itself. Instead, all eyes are on the VRS standings and the race for the final Esports World Cup 2026 invitation, which could ultimately be decided by the outcome of FaZe versus NiP.
