The excitement for IEM Dallas 2025 is overflowing, as we anticipate we’ll see some of the best Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) esports yet. Taking place as part of the mega event DreamHack Dallas 2025, the best teams in the world will compete in May for a huge $1 million prize pool and the glory of lifting an S-Tier LAN trophy.
Let’s dive in and discuss everything CS2 esports fans must know about IEM Dallas 2025, from the tournament’s schedule to format, teams competing, opening matchups, and how you can watch all the action unfold from the comfort of your own home.
IEM Dallas 2025 Format & Schedule
All teams will compete in Dallas, Texas, starting on 19 May 2025. All 16 teams are kicking off their journey in the Group Stage, which runs from 19 to 22 May 2025. The Group Stage features two GSL-style, double-elimination groups of eight teams each.
The top three teams from each group advance to the Playoffs Stage, with winners of each group earning spots in the Semifinals, while runners-up and third-place finishers earn spots in the Quarterfinals.
At the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, the Playoffs Stage will be held in front of a live crowd from 23 to 25 May 2025. Quarterfinals and Semifinals matches are best-of-three, while the Grand Final is best-of-five.
IEM Dallas 2025 Teams & Storylines To Watch
One of the most exciting storylines set to unfold at IEM Dallas 2025 has to be the return of the GOAT of Counter-Strike, Ukrainian legend Oleksandr “s1mple” Kostyliev. s1mple is competing in IEM Dallas 2025 under the FaZe Clan banner, on loan from NAVI for both this event and the BLAST.tv Austin Major.
Another big storyline is Team Vitality’s win streak. Ahead of IEM Dallas 2025, Team Vitality is on a 25-match win streak (the second highest in CS history) and have lifted five S-Tier event trophies in a row. At IEM Melbourne, the squad managed to win the ESL Grand Slam for an extra $1 million in prize money. Will Team Vitality continue their streak and win IEM Dallas? We can’t wait to find out!
Now, check out the complete list of teams competing at IEM Dallas 2025 below, including which groups they start their journey in.
Group A Teams & First Matchups:
- Team Vitality vs. Legacy
- 3DMax vs. GamerLegion
- The MongolZ vs. FURIA Esports
- Lynn Vision Gaming vs. G2 Esports
Group B Teams & First Matchups:
- MOUZ vs. BC.Game Esports
- Team Liquid vs. FaZe Clan
- Aurora Gaming vs. HEROIC
- Team Falcons vs. NRG
While there is no clear group of death at IEM Dallas 2025, I do believe that Group B looks a bit rough considering FaZe Clan has brought in s1mple. I can’t wait to see who survives!
How To Watch IEM Dallas 2025
CS2 esports fans can watch all the action unfold on the ESLCS Twitch channel. You can also catch up with highlights via the ESL Counter-Strike YouTube channel.
Stay tuned to our esports section, as we will bring you a lot more content throughout 2025 and beyond!
