SPUNJ, Striker and Professeur preview IEM Cologne Major

Chad ‘SPUNJ’ Burchill, Milan ‘Striker’ Švejda and Zvonimir ‘Professeur’ Burazin gathered to preview the first IEM Cologne Major in Germany since 2016. The analysts reviewed the 2026 season to date and outlined expectations for the tournament.

The panel recapped recent results, including IEM Beijing, and examined map preferences, roster changes and statistical leaders from Season 1 of 2026. Discussion covered podium finishes, likely MVP candidates and standout performers.

They addressed technical topics raised this season, reporting on changes to the in-game sticker system and on a claimed fix to a flash-related issue that affected CSTV staff.

For Cologne, the analysts assessed opening matchups and explained how current map trends could affect team strategies. They published a power ranking that used recent form, map pools and head-to-head results as criteria for placement.

The group also produced Pick ‘Ems for the event, identifying match outcomes they view as most and least likely and noting implied probabilities for several favorites and underdogs.

The discussion extended to the wider calendar, noting that domestic and regional competitions such as the EWC and the XSE Pro League influence team momentum and player movement. The analysts reviewed how midseason roster changes and tactical shifts have altered the balance between established teams and rising squads.

The preview aired live on a streaming platform, with highlight clips posted to social media and audio versions released afterwards. The episode is part of a series of analyst shows that focus on tournament previews, meta updates and statistical review.

Cologne last hosted a Major in 2016. Analysts referenced recent results and patch updates as primary inputs for their evaluations and noted that match-day form and specific matchup details can determine outcomes independently of season-long rankings.