The ESL Challenger Jonkoping Champions take the stage in hopes of claiming another Challenger title, as Monte take on Apeks in the second semi-final in Atlanta.

CS2 odds used in this article were provided by one of the best CS2 betting sites, Pinnacle.

Apeks vs Monte Match Preview

Apeks

Apeks are in decent form as of late, especially on LAN. The international squad was very impressive at Elisa Masters Espoo, where they achieved a Grand Final finish, losing only to FURIA. The team’s sniper Tim “nawwk” Jonasson put up outstanding performances throughout the event, earning himself the MVP medal. However, at ESL Challenger Atlanta the whole team seems to have stepped up their game, and they look very dangerous.

The Norwegian duo of Joakim “jkaem” Myrbostad and Adne “sense” Fredriksen is at the forefront of Apeks’ attacks. They are the main reason for the international squad’s success in this tournament, being the second and third best-performing players at the event.

Monte

Having won their last event, Monte are keen on continuing their winning streak and claiming their second ESL Challenger trophy in CS2. Most people thought that, after Mohammad “BOROS” Malhas departed the team, following their sensational Paris Major run, the squad would collapse and never reach the same heights. However, since then Monte seems to have improved tremendously, being a threat at every event they attend.

The Ukrainian-majority roster’s strength is how well-rounded they are as a team. There have no glaring exploitable weaknesses, which makes them very difficult to play against. With all those facts in mind, they are more than capable of going all the way in Atlanta.

Apeks vs Monte Odds & Prediction

Pinnacle Esports have Monte as favourites to take down Apeks and have a chance at winning their second ESL Challenger tournament in a row. The Ukrainian-majority roster is used to play-off pressure, and they should be able to get it over the line.

• Prediction: Apeks (1-2) Monte
• Odds: Apeks Win (+147/2.470), Monte Win (-181/1.552)
• CS2 Betting Site: Pinnacle

All odds accessed are accurate at the time of writing and are liable to change.

Hero image credits: ESL