FaZe defeat Passion UA 2:0 to advance to StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 Playoffs

FaZe have secured their place in the playoffs of the StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 after a hard-fought 2:0 victory over Passion UA in a best-of-three series. Both maps were closely contested, but FaZe showed slightly more stability in crucial rounds to close out the series.

Map veto

1. Passion UA removed Ancient
2. FaZe removed Train
3. Passion UA picked Overpass
4. FaZe picked Mirage
5. FaZe removed Inferno
6. Passion UA removed Nuke
7. Dust2 was left over

Overpass (13:11 FaZe)

Overpass, picked by Passion UA, turned into a tight battle. Both teams traded rounds consistently, with the first half ending 7:5 in favor of FaZe on the CT side. FaZe’s riflers and trade executions stood out, allowing them to maintain a small but decisive lead. Passion UA had their moments, applying pressure and contesting key positions, but inconsistent execution in critical rounds prevented them from overtaking their opponents. FaZe ultimately closed the map 13:11.

Mirage (13:11 FaZe)

Mirage, picked by FaZe, started strongly for the Polish side, giving them a slight advantage on the T-side during the first half. Passion UA fought back, reducing the deficit and even briefly taking the lead, making the closing rounds extremely tense. FaZe regained control through confident individual plays, smart timeout usage, and precise executions, ultimately finishing the map and series 13:11.

Match MVP

The standout player was Jakub “jcobbb” Pietruszewski from FaZe, who showcased consistent impact throughout the series.

jcobbb’s statistics:

• K-D: 41–32
• ADR: 87.7
• KAST: 83.3%
• Rating:1.31
  

FaZe advance to the playoffs, while Passion UA are eliminated despite showing competitive play. Both maps were close, but FaZe’s slight edge in stability and execution in decisive moments allowed them to secure the series and continue their run for the championship title.