StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 – Stage 2 Preview

Tomorrow marks the start of the second stage of the StarLadder Budapest Major 2025, where eight teams that have been waiting for their opponents will join the eight squads that advanced through Stage 1. Ahead lie decisive matches, where every team will fight for a spot in the next round and a step closer to the ultimate goal.

The entire StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 runs from November 24 to December 14, bringing together 32 teams from around the world competing for $500,000 and the championship title. The total prize pool of the event stands at $1,250,000. In this preview, we will look at the opening matchups of Stage 2 and assess each team’s chances of advancing.

Format, Dates, and Teams at StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 – Stage 2

The second stage will feature a Swiss format with 16 teams and will be played from November 29 to December 2, 2025. Starting from Round 2, matchups will be determined using the Buchholz system combined with initial seedings. Elimination and advancement matches will be played in a Bo3 format, while all others will be Bo1. By the end of the stage, eight teams will qualify for Stage 3, and the remaining eight will be eliminated from the tournament.

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Below is the list of opening Stage 2 matchups along with each team’s chances:

Astralis vs NiP

NiP confidently passed the first stage with a 3–1 score, defeating Lynn Vision, FaZe Clan, and Fluxo, and losing only to NRG in their opening match. Astralis, a team with a rich history and championship pedigree, enter this matchup as the favorites. However, NiP have a real chance to replicate their success from Stage 1 and overcome another strong opponent.

3DMAX vs fnatic

Fnatic, despite being underdogs in Stage 1, managed to advance with a 3–1 record, beating RED Canids, Imperial, and NRG, and losing only to Fluxo. 3DMAX enter the tournament in better form—they finished second at the CS Asia Championships 2025, and notably, they defeated fnatic 2–1 in their recent encounter, which may become a key factor in this matchup.

Passion UA vs FaZe Clan

Many analysts and players expected FaZe to advance 3–0. Instead, they found themselves on the brink of elimination at 2–2, but a hard-fought win over Fluxo secured their place in Stage 2. The last time FaZe met Passion UA was at PGL Bucharest 2025, though the Ukrainian team had a different roster back then. FaZe enter as favorites, but given FaZe’s shaky Stage 1 and Passion UA’s momentum, the Ukrainians have a genuine opportunity to start Stage 2 with an upset.

PARIVISION vs TYLOO

PARIVISION are clear favorites in this matchup. However, they were also the last team to qualify for Stage 2, beating Legacy in their deciding match. TYLOO may find success thanks to their unpredictable, aggressive playstyle. Considering the difficult path PARIVISION had in Stage 1, the Chinese squad may well begin Stage 2 with a victory.

NAVI vs FlyQuest

Facing NAVI in the opening round is a dangerous challenge. FlyQuest advanced 3–0 in Stage 1, defeating Legacy, Imperial, and Fluxo. While these may not be the strongest opponents, FlyQuest entered Stage 1 as underdogs and still showed solid form. NAVI, after a string of setbacks, may encounter some difficulties here—but as always, b1t is known for stepping up in crucial moments and delivering key rounds for his team.

Aurora vs M80

M80 were the second team to enter Stage 2 with a flawless 3–0 run. Their wins over B8, PARIVISION, and NRG ensured a smooth progression. Aurora, however, are a tough and dangerous opponent. M80 have never faced the Turkish lineup, which may become a psychological factor in this Bo1. Aurora are considered favorites, but M80, riding the momentum from Stage 1, could surprise once again.

MIBR vs Imperial

This matchup features two teams that have struggled throughout the season. Imperial were one step away from elimination in the 2–2 pool of Stage 1, but a decisive win over NRG kept them in the tournament. It’s difficult to call a clear favorite, but MIBR seem to have a slight advantage in this Brazilian derby, having had more time to rest and prepare.

Liquid vs B8

B8 started Stage 1 with a loss to M80 but bounced back with three consecutive victories over The Huns, PARIVISION, and Legacy to secure their place in Stage 2. It’s difficult to name an absolute favorite. On one hand, Liquid have had time to rest and improve, though their recent results have been average. On the other hand, B8 built strong momentum after their initial loss. This matchup promises to be intense and competitive, though I slightly favor B8 to take the win.

Favorites, Underdogs, and Dark Horses at StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 – Stage 2

Ahead of Stage 2, several teams clearly stand out as favorites, underdogs, and dark horses. Among the favorites are 3DMAX, NAVI, Aurora, and B8: 3DMAX have shown consistent form and boast a recent victory over fnatic, NAVI remain dangerous thanks to their strong individual skill, Aurora appear highly prepared for their opening matchup, and B8 carry excellent momentum from Stage 1.

Potential dark horses include Passion UA, M80, and FlyQuest — Passion UA may take advantage of FaZe’s instability, M80 advanced 3–0 and have already proven their strength, while FlyQuest swept the first stage despite starting as underdogs.

Meanwhile, TYLOO, fnatic, and MIBR are expected to face the biggest challenges, as TYLOO rely heavily on their aggressive style, fnatic remain inconsistent against stronger opposition, and MIBR overall seem to be in weaker form compared to their rivals.

Where to Watch StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 – Stage 2

You can follow the Stage 2 broadcasts on StarLadder’s official YouTube and Twitch channels. You can also stay updated with news and match schedules on our website:

In just a few days, we will dive into the intense and thrilling action of the most anticipated tournament of the season!