Vitality defeat NAVI 2:0 in Stage 3 of the StarLadder Budapest Major 2025

In a decisive match for a playoff spot, Vitality and NAVI delivered a tense showdown that kept the intrigue alive until the final rounds on both maps. Despite a strong performance from the Ukrainian squad and the phenomenal form of w0nderful, it was Vitality who managed to impose their pace and secure a 2:0 victory, guaranteeing themselves a place in the playoffs of the StarLadder Budapest Major 2025. For NAVI, the loss sends them into the 2-2 bracket, where the next match could be decisive.

Inferno (13:11 Vitality)

The first half of Inferno passed without a clear advantage for either team. Vitality managed to close the half with a minimal lead. Even though this was Vitality’s map pick, NAVI put up a solid fight despite Vitality’s 75% win rate compared to NAVI’s 50% on Inferno. In the second half, the Ukrainian team secured a streak of four rounds that boosted their confidence, but even w0nderful’s incredible clutches weren’t enough to save the map. The final score: 13:11 in favor of Vitality.

Train (11:13 Vitality)

The first half of Train ended without a clear favorite. Despite a series of lost rounds, NAVI responded with an aggressive T side and finished the half tied. In the second half, Vitality reached match point at 12:9. NAVI managed to take only two more rounds, and Vitality closed out Train 13:11 and the series 2:0.

Match MVP

Despite the loss, the best player of the match was w0nderful with a 1.43 rating. An incredible performance from the Ukrainian AWPer, but unfortunately it wasn’t enough to secure the win.

Vitality advance to the playoffs with a 3-1 record and will have plenty of time to rest and prepare. NAVI drop into the 2-2 bracket, where there is no room for error. StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 Stage 3 runs from December 4 to 7, with only eight teams earning a spot in the playoffs to compete for the championship title and $500,000.