Xizt Returns as NIP Coach for CS2 Revival

In a significant move for the esports scene, Richard “Xizt” Landström has been announced as the new coach for Ninjas in Pyjamas’ (NIP) Counter-Strike 2 team. This marks a notable return for Xizt to the Swedish organization, six years after his departure. The announcement comes at a time when NIP is looking to rejuvenate its Counter-Strike 2 project amidst a period of restructuring.

Soon the hunt will begin 🥷 pic.twitter.com/Jqt5BttL3l

— NIP CS (@NIPCS) March 8, 2024

Xizt, a seasoned name in the Counter-Strike community, has been a free agent since December 2023. His return to NIP is not just a homecoming but also the beginning of a new chapter in his coaching career. Previously, Xizt has had an illustrious tenure as a player for NIP, from 2012 to 2018, during which he played a pivotal role in the team’s success. His achievements include winning the ESL One: Cologne 2014 Major and reaching the finals in four other Major tournaments.

After retiring from professional play in 2021, Xizt initially joined Heroic as an analyst before being promoted to the role of coach. Under his guidance, Heroic clinched titles at the Pinnacle Cup Championship, BLAST Premier: Fall Finals 2022, and BLAST Premier: Spring Final 2023, in addition to finishing as runners-up at the IEM Rio Major.

Xizt’s comeback to NIP coincides with the organization’s efforts to rebuild its Counter-Strike 2 team, which currently includes Fredrik “REZ” Sterner and Alejandro “alex” Masanet. The team recently participated in the BLAST Premier Spring Showdown with its academy squad, following the departure of three main roster players. Despite a challenging period, highlighted by an early exit at the RMR with a 0-3 record, the young talent Max “maxster” Jansson managed to make a significant impact during the match against Heroic.

As NIP undergoes this period of transformation, the expectations for Xizt’s role as coach are high. The organization is determined to climb back to the top of the competitive scene by January 2025. With Xizt’s rich experience and proven track record, both as a player and a coach, his leadership is seen as a crucial element in steering NIP towards achieving their ambitious goals.