cs2 · retakes

How T-Side Holds a Planted Site in CS2 and How to Break It

Learn how to hold and retake a planted site in CS2 with crossfire setups and key counters.

8 Oct 2026 · 3 min read

Two CS2 players in a crossfire on a site with a planted bomb

When the T-side holds a planted site in CS2, the key to success is using crossfire angles to block the CTs from defusing the bomb. The retake team must break the crossfire before they can even reach the bomb. Here's how it works and how to counter it.

A strong site hold often starts with one player in a high-positioned peek and another in a low-angle crossfire. This blocks both flanks and keeps the CTs guessing. The retake has to clear these angles first to even attempt a defuse.

The first step in breaking a hold is identifying where the crossfire is coming from. This can be done by rotating slowly, using flashes, or calling out angles in chat. Once the crossfire is pinned down, the retake can peel off to defuse or push through.

Crossfire Positions and Their Counters

Common site hold positions and how to break them
AngleCrossfireCounterUtility Tip
High peek (e.g. B site on Inferno)T holds A from abovePeel to the side with a flashUse a smoke to force a move
Low cross (e.g. A on Mirage)T blocks the bomb from behindPeel to the side and wait for a throwUse a decoy to fake movement
Side peek (e.g. B on Vertigo)T holds the site from the sidePeel and force a reactionUse a flash to blind the crossfire
Flank cross (e.g. A on Overpass)T holds the bomb from the flankPeel and go deepUse a molotov to force a retreat
Behind the wall (e.g. A on Train)T holds the bomb behind coverPeel and wait for a peekUse a smoke to block the hold
Behind the corner (e.g. B on Dust II)T hides around the cornerPeel and wait for a flashUse a decoy to force a reaction

Adapt based on the enemy's utility loadout and positioning.

How to Set Up Your Own Site Hold

Setting Up a Strong Site Hold

  1. 01

    Secure a high or crossfire position

    Pick a spot where you can see the bomb and have a clear line of sight to the CTs.

  2. 02

    Communicate with your teammate

    Let your teammate know where you are and what angle you're holding.

  3. 03

    Use utility wisely

    Smoke or flash when needed to protect your position and force the CTs into a reaction.

  4. 04

    Peel smartly

    When you have to move, peel off in a way that keeps the crossfire active.

  5. 05

    Stay disciplined

    Don't panic or chase. A good site hold is about patience and map control.

What if the CTs don't rotate to the crossfire?+

Peel to the side and force them to commit. Use utility to create a fake threat or block their vision.

How do I avoid getting flashed while holding the site?+

Peel off in a way that keeps you moving. Communicate with your teammate to cover for you when you need to move.

Can I hold the site by myself?+

Yes, but it's harder. You'll need to be disciplined with utility and movement to keep the crossfire active.

What if the CTs use a lot of utility?+

Smoke or flash to counter, and always have a plan for when you have to move. Hold with your teammate to cover for each other.

Play CS2 retakes

Sources

← All posts