NAVI eliminate FURIA from the Major and advance to the semifinals of StarLadder Budapest Major 2025

NAVI confidently secured a spot in the semifinals of the StarLadder Budapest Major 2025, defeating FURIA in a tense three-map series. The Ukrainian squad dominated on Mirage and Train, endured a painful comeback by the Brazilians on Inferno, but ultimately closed out the match and knocked one of the tournament favorites out of the playoffs, earning a semifinal clash against FaZe Clan.

Mirage (13:5 NAVI)

NAVI delivered an outstanding performance on Mirage. In the first half on the T side, the Ukrainian team played aggressively and with confidence, allowing FURIA to claim only four rounds on the CT side. b1t and iM stood out with several impressive kills that paved the way to victory. In the second half, FURIA failed to find their rhythm and eventually fell 5:13.

Inferno (16:13 FURIA)

Inferno turned out to be a nerve-racking map for both NAVI and FURIA fans. Following their convincing win on Mirage, NAVI started Inferno with dominance, finishing the first half on the CT side with a 9:3 lead. They also secured the pistol round in the second half, making a 2–0 series victory seem inevitable. However, from round 14 onward, FURIA completely turned the game around. The Brazilian team went on an incredible eight-round streak, and a clutch play by FalleN gave them even more confidence, pushing the game into overtime. In overtime, FURIA left NAVI no chances and closed Inferno 16:13.

Train (13:3 NAVI)

On the decisive third map, FURIA were barely visible. From the very first rounds, NAVI played extremely aggressively on the T side, leaving FURIA with no answers. A convincing 10-round first half essentially sealed the fate of the match. The second half was short-lived, as FURIA failed to get back into the game and lost Train 3:13.

Match MVP

Across all three maps, makazze was named the best player of the match with a 1.4 rating. He showcased a strong individual performance and an aggressive playstyle that helped NAVI secure this crucial victory.

Despite being considered favorites both in this match and at the tournament overall, FURIA fall in a hard-fought series against NAVI and exit the Major in 5–8th place, earning $45,000 in prize money. NAVI advance to the semifinals, where FaZe Clan are already waiting. The StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 Playoffs take place from December 11 to 14, with the winner set to claim $500,000 in prize money and the championship title.