Sashi Esport Defeats Virtus.pro to Advance to Round of 16 at EWC Open Qualifier Sashi Esport delivered a stunning upset by defeating Virtus.pro in a Best of 3 series, securing their place in the Round of 16 at the Esports World Cup 2026 Open Qualifier. The Danish team, ranked around #52 globally, triumphed over the veteran organization in a 2-1 series on August 9, ending Virtus.pro’s run at the Last Chance Qualifier for the main EWC event. The result, which took place at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, marked a significant moment in competitive Counter-Strike history. The match, part of the single-elimination playoff phase of the EWC Open Qualifier, saw Sashi overcome the odds as betting markets had heavily favored Virtus.pro. The Danish team had already qualified for the knockout rounds by navigating the group stage, where they competed alongside teams like SINNERS. Virtus.pro, ranked between #34 and #48 globally, entered the playoffs as a formidable force, boasting a legacy spanning over two decades of Counter-Strike competition. Despite their storied history, the organization was eliminated in three maps, a testament to Sashi’s resilience and tactical execution. The EWC 2026 Open Qualifier, held from August 7-9, featured a $100,000 prize pool and served as a critical opportunity for teams to qualify for the main Esports World Cup. Sashi’s victory carries weight beyond the immediate payout, as it positions them to compete in the Round of 16. The win also highlights the unpredictable nature of esports, where underdog teams can disrupt established powerhouses. Virtus.pro, founded in 2003, has long been a dominant force in Counter-Strike, with success across multiple game iterations, including CS:GO and CS2.#counter_strike #esports_world_cup_2026 #sashi_esport #virtus_pro #paris_expo_porte_de_versailles
