StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 is kicking off, and one of the most intriguing matchups of the opening stage is the clash between Brazilian Imperial and Chinese Rare Atom. Both teams arrive at the tournament with different trajectories but similar ambitions: to secure their spot on the international stage and confidently advance to the next phase. The Bo1 format makes this match especially unpredictable — a single mistake or the right map choice can decide everything. Below is a detailed analysis of each team’s form, map pool, and key factors that may shape the outcome.
How the Bookmakers See It: Imperial as Favorites
Bookmakers consider Imperial moderate favorites in this matchup. This assessment is based on their more stable LAN performances, stronger map pool, and confident play on maps that are especially important in a Bo1 format. Rare Atom show strong results within their region, but their inconsistency against structured opponents and reliance on a high-tempo style make them less predictable on the Major stage. Thanks to experience, discipline, and a wider range of tactical solutions, Imperial enter this match with a noticeable advantage in the eyes of analysts and bookmakers.
Current Form of Imperial: What to Expect From Imperial
Over the past three months, Imperial have played 56 maps, winning 35 — a solid result for the opening stage of the Major. In the last month, the team participated in two events: DreamHack Knockout Atlanta 2025, where they finished 3–4th, and Circuit X Retake São Paulo 2025, where they placed fourth.
- Imperial roster: VINI, noway, try, chelo, skullz
In their last five matches, Imperial earned three wins (against Yawara, Galorys, and ALZON) and suffered two losses (to Galorys and Sharks). This indicates a decent overall form, though the team still shows vulnerability against aggressive opponents.
Current Form of Rare Atom: What to Expect From Rare Atom
Rare Atom have played 69 maps in the past three months, winning 39 — also a strong indicator of consistency. The team has built momentum with back-to-back runner-up finishes at Perfect World CS Challenge Series 2 and ESL Challenger League Season 50 Asia-Pacific Finals during the last month.
- Rare Atom roster: Summer, L1haNg, ChildKing, TiGeR, Marek
In their previous five matches, Rare Atom secured three victories (against Gentle Mates, Kaleido, and The Huns) but lost twice to Lynn Vision — suggesting they struggle against structured teams with a well-prepared T side.
Imperial’s Map Pool
Imperial will almost certainly remove Ancient, their most frequent permanent ban. They may also eliminate Nuke or Train, which don’t fit as comfortably into their current pool.
When it comes to strong picks, Imperial look most dangerous on Overpass (75% WR) and also perform well on Inferno (67%) and Mirage (64%). Considering Rare Atom’s comfort on Mirage and Inferno, and the fact that Overpass is less common for them, Imperial will aim to leave Overpass — a map where they hold a clear advantage.
In summary, Imperial will likely try to steer the veto process toward Overpass as the final map.
Rare Atom’s Map Pool
Rare Atom will start by banning Nuke, their consistent first ban across formats. After that, they may consider removing Train or Overpass, though they could keep Overpass if they want to push the pace and disrupt Imperial’s structure.
Regarding preferred maps, Rare Atom perform best on Mirage (69%), Inferno (67%), and Dust2 (63%). However, Imperial are also strong on these maps, creating a difficult veto situation for the Chinese squad. The least risky choice for them might be Dust2, an open and fast-paced map that suits their playstyle.
Overall, Rare Atom may attempt to leave Mirage or Inferno, but Dust2 appears to be the most pragmatic option against Imperial.
Head-to-Head History
Imperial and Rare Atom have not played each other in the past six months, so there is no recent direct matchup data to evaluate. This adds unpredictability to the match, as both teams will need to adapt to each other's playstyle on the fly.
Match Prediction: Imperial vs Rare Atom — StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 Stage 1
Imperial enter the match with greater LAN stability and a strong Overpass, which is highly likely to become the deciding map. Rare Atom have more maps played recently and decent regional results, but their issues against structured opponents could be a key disadvantage here.
Prediction: Imperial win.
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