FaZe Forge Comeback Against NAVI to Book a StarLadder Budapest Major Final Date With Vitality

FaZe rebound against NAVI to set up Major final against Vitality

FaZe Clan have secured their spot in the grand final of the StarLadder Budapest Major 2025, edging past Natus Vincere in a hard-fought best-of-three semifinal that saw them recover after a slow start. 

Semifinal Recap: FaZe vs NAVI

FaZe began their semifinal against NAVI on the pick Ancient, where they struggled significantly — going down 5–13 as NAVI dominated both sides of the map early. However, FaZe stood firm in the series. They responded with a crucial 13–11 win on Nuke, stabilising momentum and turning the tide. On the deciding map, Inferno, FaZe continued to pressure NAVI and closed out the series 13–8 to clinch the 2–1 victory. 

Veterans and rising stars stepped up throughout the series, with clutch plays and critical rounds that swung both momentum and map control back in FaZe’s favour — sending them through to the Major final. 

Opponent in the Grand Final: Vitality

Waiting for FaZe in the grand final are the reigning Major champions Team Vitality, who punched their own ticket by defeating Spirit 2–0 in the other semifinal. Vitality’s victory came courtesy of a controlled pace of play, disciplined executes, and tactical control of key sites that saw them seal the series 13–8 on the deciding map. 

That win ensures Vitality will compete in back-to-back Major finals, continuing their run at the highest level of CS2 competition. 

Road to the Playoffs

Both FaZe and Vitality navigated a gruelling path to the knockout rounds in Budapest. FaZe overcame early inconsistency in the Swiss stages before finding their footing and building momentum through elimination matches. Meanwhile, Vitality earned their playoff berth with strong wins in the group phase, including a clean quarterfinal performance over The MongolZ. 

What’s at Stake

The StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 is one of the premier events in the Counter-Strike 2 calendar, featuring 32 teams battling over three weeks at MTK Sportpark and the MVM Dome in Budapest, Hungary, for a significant prize pool and Major glory. 

This final marks a compelling showdown: FaZe Clan, known for their explosive play and resilience, versus Team Vitality, the defending champions with a roster stacked with event wins and star performers. 

Grand Final Format

While most playoff rounds at the event have been best-of-three, the championship match will be played in a best-of-five format, adding strategic depth and endurance to decide the 2025 Major champion.