CDL Stage 2 Recap: Minnesota revived and OpTic on the ropes

Jordan Marney

Jordan Marney

Week two for CDL’s stage two has concluded. There were some major talking points, including the revival of Minnesota and the downfall of OpTic Gaming this week.

CDL fans who were able to watch week two were in for a treat. Both the Rokkr and the Ravens showcased new rosters, while OpTic Gaming LA was left scratching their heads.

Crushing blow: OpTic Gaming suffers back to back defeats

OpTic Gaming will want to get this week out of their system fast. The Call of Duty giants suffered two heart-wrenching 3-0 defeats, first to Minnesota then to Florida. The first best-of-five set the tone for the Greenwall this weekend. It was not just an upset, it was a dominating display by Minnesota. The Rokkr set the pace with an emphatic 250-81 hardpoint victory on Raid. The 4-2 comeback from Minnesota seemed to be the icebreaker. Rokkr closed out the series with a strong 3-1 Control victory on Raid.

The week did not get better for OpTic as they suffered another 3-0 loss, this time at the hands of the Florida Mutineers. This was the closer of the two best-of-fives despite the score line. OpTic Gaming took Florida the distance on each map. The first map was a 250-221 defeat on Raid. The second was a 11 round slugfest on Checkmate and the third was a 3-2 Control defeat on Checkmate. Easier days are not on the horizon for the Greenwall as they go up against Dallas Empire and Seattle Surge who are fighting for first place. To keep their winner's bracket dreams alive OpTic must take care of business next week.

New rosters prevail at CDL Stage 2

The Minnesota Rokkr and the London Royal Ravens were two of the best performers during week two. Starting with Minnesota, the CDL franchise brought in rookie sensation Standy to take the place of veteran MajorManiak. Minnesota did not look back as they slaughtered OpTic Gaming 3-0. Minnesota taking down the Dallas Empire was the perfect ending to their week. The Rokkr were resilient against a side they have already taken to five maps but this time they came out with the win.

The London Royal Ravens has looked one of the more improved sides in the CDL on stage two. London currently sits on a 2-1 record and in contention for a winners bracket run. This impressive start came about after the introduction of PaulEhx. London Ravens were able to convincingly take down LA Guerrillas and LA Thieves, before pushing New York Subliners all the way in each of the maps they played. Despite losing 3-1, London's new roster received praise from their opponents in a commendable effort.

The Call of Duty League returns Thursday, April 4th with the Dallas Empire and the Florida Mutineers doing battle in the first game of the week. Stay tuned to Esports.gg for all of the latest Call of Duty League news.