Final Stage-2 Matchups Set at StarLadder Budapest Major 2025

Final Stage 2 Matchups Confirmed

The matchups for the fifth and conclusive round of Stage 2 at StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 have been announced — these Bo3 duels will determine the remaining three teams that advance to the final Swiss stage. 

• M80 vs Passion UA — a North American-heavy derby that ensures at least one NA-majority team qualifies alongside the South American contingent.

• Liquid vs Astralis — both teams entered the day 0–2; only one can bounce back and secure Stage 3 survival.

• 3DMAX vs Ninjas in Pyjamas — the final ticket to Stage 3 will be decided here, as 3DMAX seeks redemption after recent losses and NiP fight to stay alive.

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Context: Stakes and Storylines

• The two 0–2 squads, Liquid and Astralis, face a do-or-die Bo3 — guaranteeing that at least one will stage a comeback to reach 3–2 and survive Stage 2.

• The M80 vs Passion UA matchup holds additional weight, as it guarantees that at least one North American or North American-majority lineup progresses to the next stage — reinforcing region representation among the final eight.

• 3DMAX enters must-win territory against NiP after a rough run — in contrast, NiP look to capitalize on their last chance to avoid elimination.

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Recent Build-Up: Form & Momentum

• Earlier in Stage 2, some heavyweights struggled: Liquid, after a shaky start, managed to stay alive thanks to a 2–0 win over MIBR.

• Meanwhile, Passion UA recovered from an earlier blowout loss to 3DMAX by stomping fnatic 2–0 to reach the final day.

• The overall setup for Stage 2 had been framed as a battleground for legacy orgs — teams like NAVI, FaZe Clan and Astralis — to prove they still belong among the elite.

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What’s at Stake

• Survival for top teams. For squads like Liquid and Astralis, the next win means escaping elimination — failure means exiting the Major in disgrace.

• Regional representation. The M80 vs Passion UA clash could ensure North American presence remains vibrant in Stage 3, alongside South American contenders.

• Momentum and morale. For 3DMAX and NiP, the final Swiss berth could deliver confidence for deeper runs — or signal more turbulence if they fail.