At IEM Chengdu 2025, we are set for an exciting clash between the Asian phenomenon The MongolZ and the experienced European squad HEROIC. Both teams enter this match with ambitions to solidify their place among the elite, but The MongolZ appear to be the favorites thanks to their consistent form, solid map pool, and confident results in recent months. This match will serve as a test of resilience for HEROIC and another opportunity for The MongolZ to prove they can compete with the world’s best.
Bookmakers’ View: The MongolZ as Favorites
Bookmakers see The MongolZ as the favorites in this matchup. Their steady form, convincing results against tier-two teams, and recent success at major events have built trust in the Asian lineup. The MongolZ display confidence, a clear understanding of their map pool, and noticeable progress in team coordination. While HEROIC boast more experience on big stages, their recent performances have been inconsistent, which explains their underdog status. Bookmakers expect The MongolZ’s aggressive playstyle and strong preparation to be key factors on their road to victory.
The MongolZ Current Form: What to Expect
The MongolZ arrive at IEM Chengdu 2025 in strong form. Over the past three months, they’ve played 69 maps and won 42, showing stability and high performance even against stronger opponents. Last month, The MongolZ competed at ESL Pro League Season 22, finishing 9–11th, and achieved 3rd place at the Thunderpick World Championship 2025 — a remarkable result for an Asian roster.
- Roster: bLitz, Techno4K, 910, mzinho, controlez
In their last five matches, The MongolZ claimed three victories — twice over 9z and once against Aurora. Losses to NAVI and FURIA show that the team still struggles against top-tier opponents, but overall, their form looks convincing.
HEROIC Current Form: What to Expect
HEROIC have played 52 maps in the past three months, winning 26, indicating some inconsistency. Nonetheless, they remain competitive, especially at major tournaments. In October–November, they placed 4th at CS Asia Championships 2025 and reached the top 8 at PGL Masters Bucharest 2025.
- Roster: LNZ, yxngstxr, xfl0ud, nilo, Alkaren
From their last five matches, HEROIC won three — against Aurora, BetBoom, and Ninjas in Pyjamas — but lost to GamerLegion and Liquid. These results show that the team can challenge any opponent, though they are not yet at their 2023 peak form.
The MongolZ Map Pool
An intriguing map veto battle is expected, as The MongolZ have several strong comfort maps. They usually start by banning Train, avoiding this uncomfortable battleground. Their main pick depends on the opponent’s weaknesses. Against HEROIC, The MongolZ are likely to choose Ancient, where they hold a 67% win rate, while HEROIC perform only at an average level.
Predicted The MongolZ Vetoes:
- First ban — Train
- Map pick — Ancient
- Second ban — Dust2
Their second ban might be Dust2, a map HEROIC play often but inconsistently. If The MongolZ can impose their aggressive tempo on Ancient, they could secure an early advantage in the series.
HEROIC Map Pool
HEROIC tend to stick to their structured map veto plan, usually starting by banning Inferno, where their results are notably weaker. Their likely map pick is Overpass, on which they have an 80% win rate and a comfortable tactical structure. This map allows HEROIC to display their strong preparation and discipline. In the second ban round, they’ll likely remove Nuke, to prevent The MongolZ from capitalizing on their statistical edge.
Predicted HEROIC Vetoes:
- First ban — Inferno
- Map pick — Overpass
- Second ban — Nuke
After bans and picks, Mirage is the most likely decider. Both teams are experienced and capable on this map, making it a fitting battleground to determine the winner.
Head-to-Head Record
The MongolZ and HEROIC haven’t faced each other in the past six months. This adds intrigue, as both sides lack recent direct experience against each other, which could lead to unexpected developments. HEROIC are traditionally strong in structured play and tempo control, while The MongolZ often rely on individual skill and aggression.
Match Prediction: The MongolZ vs HEROIC — IEM Chengdu 2025
A tense matchup is expected, with both teams bringing distinct strengths. The MongolZ are currently in better shape, showing consistency and growth, especially after strong showings on the international stage. HEROIC are more experienced, but their recent performances have been unstable.
If The MongolZ can dictate the tempo and capitalize on their strengths on Ancient, they have every chance to take the series. HEROIC still hold an edge in structure and experience, but The MongolZ’s momentum may prevail. Expect HEROIC to take their own pick (Overpass), but ultimately fall on Ancient and Mirage.
Prediction: The MongolZ to win 2–1.
