Counter-Strike: 9z vs Sharks (BO3) - Stake Ranked Episode 2 Playoffs

Platform comparison

Active sub-markets

Market context

The Upper bracket quarterfinal between 9z and Sharks in the Stake Ranked Episode 2 Playoffs is scheduled for 27 May at 1:30PM ET. The 68% crowd probability favours 9z, reflecting their stronger recent form in regional competition. Both teams qualified directly from group play, though 9z's path involved stiffer opposition. The best-of-three format means either team can recover from a single map loss, reducing the likelihood of decisive upsets compared to single-elimination formats.

Historical precedent from South American Counter-Strike suggests regional ranking gaps can narrow significantly in playoff environments. Sharks have upset higher-seeded opponents before, particularly when map selection favours their tactical approach. However, 9z's consistency across multiple map pools and their experience in previous Stake Ranked iterations provides a structural advantage. The 32-point probability gap reflects confidence in 9z's fundamentals rather than an overwhelming skill disparity.

Traders should monitor team roster confirmations through 26 May, as last-minute stand-ins or illness could shift the matchup's dynamics. Stake Ranked's official broadcast schedule confirmation matters—delays beyond the 7-day window trigger a 50-50 resolution. Recent performance data from qualifying rounds and any public statements about preparation or tactical adjustments would inform whether the current odds adequately price in map-specific vulnerabilities. The settlement window closes 27 May at 23:30 UTC, allowing roughly 22 hours post-match for official results confirmation.

Methodology

This page is a comparison snapshot: one live quote (Polymarket), four reference venues with their key attributes, and a single execution path — every trade button routes to Prediction Today, which mirrors the Polymarket order book directly.

Resolution & payout

Polymarket-based markets settle through the UMA Optimistic Oracle on Polygon. A proposer submits the outcome, a two-hour challenge window opens, and unchallenged proposals finalise the resolution. Payouts settle automatically in USDC the moment the result is final — no bookmaker, no delay.

Kalshi-based markets settle in USD via the CFTC-regulated clearinghouse. Betfair Exchange settles in GBP/EUR net of commission. Manifold is play-money and does not pay out real funds.

FAQ

What's the difference between YES and NO shares?

A YES share pays $1.00 if the event happens, $0 otherwise. A NO share pays $1.00 if the event doesn't happen. The market price between 0¢ and 100¢ is the implied probability.

What does it cost to trade on Prediction Today?

Zero. Prediction Today routes every order to the live Polymarket order book; the only cost is the Polygon network fee, typically under $0.01 per transaction.

How fast are USDC deposits?

Polygon credits deposits after 12 confirmations — usually under 30 seconds. Withdrawals follow the same path and land back in your wallet within minutes.

Do I need to KYC for this market?

Not under $1,500 of lifetime trading volume. Above that threshold, Prediction Today triggers a quick verification flow that finishes in minutes.

How reliable are the quoted odds?

The YES/NO percentages are the live mid-prices of the Polymarket order book. On deep markets they move every few seconds; on thinner ones you'll see short plateaus.