Get ready for ESL One Cologne 2019 | Preview

ESL One Cologne 2019 is just around the corner, and I am here to present you with all the necessary information in order for you to be fully prepared for this CSGO tournament. Below, you will be able to find more information about this event, its format, prize pool and more.

ESL One Cologne 2019 Preview

Let’s start with the basics. This event will start on July 2nd, while the grand finals will be played on the July 7th. There is a total of 16 teams taking part in this event. These teams are split into two groups of 8.

Group Stage

However, keep in mind that these are not usual groups where teams will compete against each other. If you lose two matches in this type of group, you are out of the tournament. Furthermore, these groups are called “GSL” groups, and the entire team seeding is based on ESL CSGO World Rankings.

Keep in mind that all opening matches are played in a best of 1 format, while every other match in the group stage is played in a best of 3 format. Only 3 teams from each group will advance through to the playoffs. Take note that group stage winners will advance directly to the semifinals. Furthermore, second-placed teams will advance to the playoffs as well, but they will compete in the quarterfinals where they will be ranked as high seeds. Last but not least, third-placed teams will also find their spot in the playoffs, but they will compete as low seeds in the quarterfinals.

Playoffs

It is also important to mention that playoffs will take place on July 5th and the final match will be played on July 7th. Keep in mind that there are no second chances for anyone here in Germany. Single-elimination bracket has been put in place, which basically means that if you lose one match, you are out.

All matches, except the grand final will be played in a best of 3 format, while the grand final will be played in the best of 5 series.

Prize Pool

Just like in 2018, ESL One Cologne put in a place a total of $300,000 as prize pool. Even though this is not the biggest purse in 2019, teams enjoy playing this event mainly because ESL One Cologne is known as the Cathedral of CSGO. Below, you will be able to find a full prize pool structure.

1st – $125,000

2nd – $50,000

3rd-4th – $22,000

5th-6th – $11,000

7th-8th – $7,500

9th-12th – $6,000

13th-16th – $5,000

ESL One Cologne 2019 Teams & Opening Matches

Did you know that this is the most stacked CSGO tournament in 2019? Skill wise, it attracted the best CSGO roster in the world. The likes of Astralis, Liquid, ENCE, Natus Vincere, VItality, and FaZe will look for their chance to lift the trophy in this one.

When it comes to betting, a lot of bookmakers are favoring Astralis and Liquid, while other top contenders are Natus Vincere, Vitality, and ENCE.

I believe that Liquid has what it takes to win this event, and they will prove to everyone that they are the best CSGO team at the moment.

Who is your favorite to win ESL One Cologne 2019 and why? Do you think that there is a chance for darkhorse such as mousesports or BIG to lift the trophy on their home soil? Be sure to let us know your thoughts in the comments down below.