Astralis coach Philip “NEO” Kubski will step onto the server as a player for Stake Ranked Episode 5, replacing Ukrainian youngster Mykyta “cmtry” Samolotov. This unexpected lineup change stems from Valve VRS ranking requirements, because cmtry has not yet completed five official matches with the squad.

By swapping out cmtry for NEO, the organization hopes to reduce his official match percentage. This strategic move aims to secure the coveted Major invite for the core four players and preserve their standing. However, cmtry traveled to Barcelona with the team and might feature in later matches, though he now faces the risk of missing out on his player stickers for the upcoming Major.

fnatic awaits Astralis in their opening fixture of the event. The match marks NEO‘s first official appearance as an active professional player since September 2022.