{"id":344775,"date":"2026-01-29T22:21:06","date_gmt":"2026-01-29T22:21:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/community.skin.club\/?p=344775"},"modified":"2026-01-29T22:21:06","modified_gmt":"2026-01-29T22:21:06","slug":"3dmax-bcgame-nip-passion-ua-iem-krakow-2026-stage-1","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/community.skin.club\/en\/news\/3dmax-bcgame-nip-passion-ua-iem-krakow-2026-stage-1","title":{"rendered":"3DMAX sweep BC.Game as NiP edge past Passion UA at IEM Krak\u00f3w 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"

The opening day of IEM Krak\u00f3w 2026 Stage 1 delivered two very different series, as 3DMAX cruised past BC.Game in a one-sided upper bracket quarter-final, while Ninjas in Pyjamas survived a tougher-than-expected test against Passion UA in the lower bracket. One match highlighted a clear gap in structure and form, the other underlined the fine margins that often define early LAN eliminations. For 3DMAX, it was a statement of control. For NiP, a reminder that nothing comes easy at this stage of the tournament.<\/p>\n

Road to the matchups \u2014 structure versus survival<\/h3>\n

BC.Game<\/strong> entered the upper bracket quarter-final still searching for consistency after recent roster changes. While the lineup carries name value and individual experience, their recent results hinted at unresolved structural issues, particularly against disciplined opponents.<\/p>\n

3DMAX<\/strong>, by contrast, arrived as a well-drilled unit. Their recent LAN outings showcased strong fundamentals, clear role distribution, and an ability to punish mistakes efficiently \u2014 traits that made them clear favorites going into the series.<\/p>\n

NiP<\/strong> came into the lower bracket round with expectations of control, built on LAN experience and a stable core. However, their recent form suggested vulnerability in extended series, especially when forced into scrappy, high-tempo Counter-Strike.<\/p>\n

Passion UA<\/strong>, meanwhile, entered with little to lose. The mixed-nationality roster had already shown flashes of cohesion and individual confidence, making them a dangerous opponent in a do-or-die scenario.<\/p>\n\n

\n

read more<\/p>\n

\n
\n \n
<\/div>\n \n \"paiN\n <\/picture>\n <\/a>\n
\n
\n paiN overcome B8, PARIVISION edge Aurora at IEM Krak\u00f3w 2026 Stage 1<\/a>\n \n
\n \n <\/use>\n <\/svg>\n <\/div>\n
\n \n <\/use>\n <\/svg>\n <\/div>\n
\n \n <\/use>\n <\/svg>\n <\/div>\n <\/a><\/div>\n
\n
Jan 29<\/div>\n News<\/a> <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Overpass \u2014 13:3. 3DMAX dismantle BC.Game<\/h3>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Overpass immediately exposed the gap between the two teams. 3DMAX dominated map control from the opening rounds, shutting down BC.Game\u2019s T-side ideas and denying space across the map. BC.Game struggled to find impact in opening duels or mid-round adjustments, while 3DMAX methodically built momentum. The French side closed the map 13:3 without allowing the game to develop into anything competitive.<\/p>\n

Anubis \u2014 13:4. No room for recovery<\/h3>\n

Anubis followed the same script. BC.Game attempted to reset the series with more aggression, but it only played into 3DMAX\u2019s hands. Strong utility usage, disciplined spacing, and confident trading allowed 3DMAX to pull away early. By the second half, the outcome felt inevitable. 3DMAX closed Anubis 13:4, completing a dominant 2\u20130 sweep and securing progression to Stage 2 without ever being tested.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Player of the match \u2014 Lucas \u201cLucky\u201d Chastang<\/h3>\n