The main stage of IEM Cologne 2025 kicked off today, already delivering a series of exciting CS2 matchups for fans around the world. In this article, we highlight the top 5 performers of the opening day — counting down from fifth place — who showcased high individual impact and played a key role in their teams’ victories.
5. m0NESY – 1.41
Ilya “m0NESY” Osipov, the Russian AWPer for Team Falcons, well known since his G2 days, once again displayed his trademark aggressive and effective AWPing. His standout performance came against GamerLegion on Mirage, where he delivered 98.9 ADR and a 1.54 rating, greatly contributing to his team’s 2-1 series win.
4. Wicadia – 1.41
Ali “Wicadia” Yalçın, Turkish rifler for Aurora, impressed with his aggressive style and consistent aim. In a tense match against NiP on Train, which went to overtime, Wicadia was the difference-maker, shutting down NiP’s hopes of a third map. He finished with 93 ADR and a 1.48 rating.
3. NiKo – 1.42
Nikola “NiKo” Kovač, also representing Falcons, joined m0NESY to form a deadly duo in the same series against GamerLegion. He showcased near-flawless aim, ending the day with 91.9 ADR and a 1.67 rating.
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2. woxic – 1.46
Özgür “woxic” Eker, the legendary AWPer of Aurora, lived up to his name as one of the most accurate shooters in CS. On Dust2 versus NiP, he delivered a dominant performance with 94.7 ADR and a 1.59 rating, leaving no room for the opposition.
1. bLitz – 1.50
Garidmagnai “bLitz” Byambasuren, in-game leader of The MongolZ, who led his team to the BLAST.tv Austin Major final earlier this year, continues to impress. In their opener against 3DMAX on Nuke, The MongolZ crushed their opponent 13:2, and bLitz ended the map with 82.2 ADR and a stellar 1.66 rating.
Day 1 of the IEM Cologne 2025 main stage delivered high-level CS from the start and proved that the event has gathered some of the world’s finest players. This top-5 list includes both seasoned stars like NiKo and woxic, and emerging forces such as Wicadia, m0NESY, and bLitz. Their performances not only secured wins but also set the bar for individual excellence at the event. With even fiercer battles ahead, it’s already clear — the race for the trophy will be intense.
