3DMAX upset NAVI 2–1 in EPL S22 to advance; push NaVi into 2–1 survival bracket

In a major upset at ESL Pro League Season 22 (EPL S22), 3DMAX defeated NAVI 2–1 in the Swiss Round 4. The result sends 3DMAX forward into the 2–1 bracket, while NaVi, reeling from the loss, must battle through the more precarious 2–1 lane to avoid elimination. The map scores: Nuke 13–11 for 3DMAX, Ancient 5–13 for NAVI, and a gripping Mirage 13–10 for 3DMAX in the decider. 

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Match summaries & turning points

Map 1 — Nuke (13–11 3DMAX):
3DMAX struck first on their T half, building a lead in the mid rounds. NAVI clawed back late, but 3DMAX closed with composure under fire. Their utility usage and site control were sharp, and they held when NaVi tried to retake aggressively in the last few rounds.

Map 2 — Ancient (5–13 NAVI):
NAVI responded in full force, dominating the second map. 3DMAX struggled to break strong early defense setups; NAVI’s flashes and multi-site pressure overwhelmed them. The 5-round output for 3DMAX reflected NAVI’s dominance.

Map 3 — Mirage (13–10 3DMAX):
Mirage was the decider. 3DMAX grabbed early control, but NAVI threatened mid-match. After tiebreak moments, 3DMAX took down a crucial late A push and managed to hold off NaVi’s B retakes in the final rounds to seal the upset.

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What this upset means

For 3DMAX

• This is one of the most significant blows 3DMAX has landed in EPL S22, validating their growth as a rising force capable of taking down CS heavyweights.

• Winning maps such as Nuke and Mirage over NaVi suggests they can counter traditional power teams on familiar grounds.

• Moving into the 2–1 bracket gives them smoother ground ahead — more room for mistakes, more chance to build momentum.

For NaVi

• The loss is a serious blow to NaVi’s stability. Falling into the 2–1 bracket means they must win a do-or-die match just to stay alive.

• Their performance on Nuke and Mirage showed promise, but their Ancient collapse continues to be a glaring weak point.

• NaVi will need to tighten retake coordination, mid-round responses, and site adaptation to avoid further slips.

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Roster context & historical note

3DMAX

• The 3DMAX roster includes players like Gambit, zAAz, Maka (AWPer), jackykiaz, and nivera (stand-in in some matches). Their roster has seen frequent changes, but this performance cements that they can compete with tier-one squads.

NAVI

• NaVi remains a title contender, with names such as s1mple, electroNic, b1t, perfecto, flamie. They often dominate map pick and control, but matches like this test their mid-series adaptations.