One of the most intriguing opening matches of Stage 3 at IEM Cologne Major 2026 sees The MongolZ face BetBoom. Both teams enter the stage 3 with strong momentum and legitimate ambitions to reach the playoff. While The MongolZ remain one of the most explosive teams outside the elite top five, BetBoom have quietly built excellent form and arrive in Cologne stage 3 on a three-match winning streak. With both teams capable of producing high-level Counter-Strike, this series could become one of the most competitive matches of the opening round.
Team Form
The MongolZ have experienced mixed results over the past few weeks. Despite victories over PARIVISION and Liquid, the Asian squad also suffered defeats against Legacy and B8. Nevertheless, their aggressive style and individual skill continue to make them dangerous opponents. Recent results for The MongolZ:
- 1-2 vs Legacy
- 2-0 vs PARIVISION
- 2-1 vs Liquid
- 1-2 vs B8
- 13-3 vs Lynn Vision
BetBoom, meanwhile, arrive in much better shape. Since adding d1Ledez as a temporary replacement, the team has produced several convincing victories and looks increasingly comfortable under Boombl4’s leadership. Recent results for BetBoom:
- 2-1 vs Monte
- 13-2 vs M80
- 13-9 vs GamerLegion
- 5-13 vs Spirit
- 2-0 vs GamerLegion
Three straight victories before the Major have given the CIS side plenty of confidence heading into Cologne.
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Map Pool & Veto — Slight Edge for BetBoom
Stats (last 3 months):
- Dust2: The MongolZ 57% | BetBoom 83%
- Mirage: The MongolZ 40% | BetBoom 42%
- Inferno: The MongolZ 75% | BetBoom —
- Nuke: The MongolZ 71% | BetBoom 69%
- Overpass: The MongolZ 50% | BetBoom 44%
- Ancient: The MongolZ 56% | BetBoom 50%
- Anubis: The MongolZ — | BetBoom 88%
This veto is extremely interesting. The MongolZ possess a clear advantage on Inferno, while BetBoom dominate Dust2 and Anubis. Nuke appears almost perfectly balanced, and neither side enjoys a significant edge on Ancient. Expected veto flow:
- The MongolZ are likely to avoid Anubis.
- BetBoom could remove Inferno.
- Dust2 strongly favors BetBoom.
- Nuke looks like the most balanced option.
- Ancient would offer both teams chances.
Overall, the map pool slightly favors BetBoom because of their stronger comfort picks and deeper versatility.
Key Duel — 910 vs Magnojez
The spotlight falls on the two highest-rated players on each roster.
910 has maintained a 1.14 rating over the last three months and remains one of the most aggressive riflers in the Asian scene. Although Magnojez has posted an excellent 1.23 rating and has been BetBoom’s most consistent performer, The MongolZ have repeatedly shown that their success comes from collective firepower rather than reliance on a single star.
If 910 and Techno are able to dictate the pace early, BetBoom could struggle against the constant pressure and fast mid-round decisions that have become The MongolZ’s trademark.
Why The MongolZ Can Win
Despite BetBoom entering Cologne with strong momentum, The MongolZ remain the higher-ranked team (#9 compared to #17) and possess significantly more experience against elite opposition. Their aggressive style often creates uncomfortable situations for structured teams, and their strongest maps — Inferno and Nuke — are more than capable of neutralizing BetBoom’s advantages elsewhere.
Moreover, the Mongolian side has repeatedly proven that they thrive in high-pressure matches. Their explosive riflers and confidence in chaotic situations make them one of the most dangerous teams in the entire Stage 3 field.
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Prediction
BetBoom arrive in good form and should be competitive throughout the series, but The MongolZ have a slightly higher ceiling and more experience against top opposition. Their aggressive approach and ability to win crucial duels could ultimately make the difference.
Expect a close battle, with momentum swinging back and forth, but the Mongolian squad should have enough firepower to edge out the series.
Prediction: The MongolZ to defeat BetBoom.
Expected score: 2-1.
