The forced dropout of wNv.cn because of problems with its visa application undoubtedly marks the first group of WCG 2008.

SK Gaming and wNv were both expected to reach the knockout stages, so with the Asian side out the picture, it appears as though there is one spot up for grabs.

SK comes into this event on the back of two 5th-6th placings at Extreme Masters Dubai and World e-Sports Masters, results that surely did not please the management, who are expecting better fortunes in Cologne.

Looking at SK's group opponents, one can easily see that there is no team at the same level as the Swedish giant, which is why it is expected to cruise past every team here to reach the next stage.

The battle for the second place should be hold between The Elder Gods and NoPression.

Romania has not had a noteworthy placing on an international event since GameGune 2006, and this may just be the right time to put TeG back in the map. After leaving TeG to join the ranks of HellGaming, Taofik "TaofiK" Jawich is now back in one of Romania's best line-ups ever.

NoPression flies to Cologne with hope rather than expectation. The team that has conquered the right to represent Canada in this year's WCG decided to split up after the qualifier but will still attend this event with the original roster. Still, the team's practice has not been that much so it should have a hard time to overcome a better-prepared TeG.

The other names in Group A are Mamut.si, coming from Slovenia, and XLungiz from Bangladesh, two teams that have no big record in international events and should only be able to fight not to sit last of its group.

GotFrag.com's Top 6 prediction:

1. SK Gaming
2. The Elder Gods
3. NoPression
4. Mamut.si
5. XLungiz
6. wNv.cn





WCG 2008 CS Melee

bit: "We want to win Group C"
PUTb's Flatra in doubt for WCG
wNv to miss WCG

WCG CS Group Previews
   - Group A
   - Group B
   - Group C
   - Group D
   - Group E
   - Group F
   - Group G
   - Group H

Galleries
GotFrag goes on an adventure in Cologne!
Kolnmesse venue gallery
Rock stars, half-pipe bmx, and oprah. Just part of the Opening Ceremonies.