3DMAX defeat NAVI and move one step closer to the ESL Pro League Season 22 playoffs

The French team 3DMAX pulled off a surprising 2:1 victory over NAVI at ESL Pro League Season 22, despite the Ukrainians’ strong stats and confidence on their favorite maps. Maka was the standout performer of the series, leading his team to a 2-1 record, while NAVI now find themselves on the brink of elimination.

Inferno (13:11 3DMAX)

Inferno, NAVI’s most-played map with a 63% win rate, turned into a disappointment for them. The first half began with 3DMAX dominating 5:0. NAVI then managed to seize the initiative and won six rounds in a row, ending the half in a 6:6 tie. In the second half, once 3DMAX switched to the T side, they took six straight rounds and reached map point. NAVI fought back to 11:12, but the final round went to 3DMAX, who closed the map before overtime could happen.

Train (13:11 NAVI)

On Train, 3DMAX had a slight advantage early on, leading 7:5. However, NAVI found their rhythm on defense in the second half, turning the score to 10:7. 3DMAX came close to forcing overtime, but w0nderful and his teammates secured the final crucial round, edging out a 13:11 win.

Nuke (13:8 3DMAX)

The decider, Nuke — another map NAVI frequently pick — didn’t go their way either. The first half ended with a slight edge for 3DMAX, and once sides switched, NAVI’s attack fell flat. The French squad took control and closed the map 13:8 to claim the series.

Match MVP

The best player of the match was Maka, who consistently won key duels. His series stats: ADR – 94.8, Swing +3.94%, and rating 1.27.

3DMAX secure a crucial win and advance to the 2-1 bracket — just one victory away from the playoffs. NAVI, now 1-2, drop to the lower bracket where any further loss will end their run. The main stage of ESL Pro League Season 22 runs from October 4 to 12, with the winner earning $100,000 for the team and $150,000 for the organization.