Natus Vincere sweep FaZe Clan to reach BLAST Rivals 2026 grand final rematch vs Team Vitality

Natus Vincere sweep FaZe Clan to reach BLAST Rivals 2026 grand final rematch vs Team Vitality

Natus Vincere continued their dominant run at BLAST Rivals 2026 Season 1 by eliminating FaZe Clan in a convincing 2-0 semi-final victory, securing a place in the grand final and extending their unbeaten record against FaZe at the event.

The Ukrainian squad entered the playoffs in strong form after progressing through the group stage without major setbacks, including a previous win over FaZe. That earlier result already established NAVI as the stronger side in this matchup, and the semi-final only reinforced that narrative.

Dust2 — NAVI shut down FaZe’s pick

The series opened on Dust2, selected by FaZe, but the map quickly slipped out of their control. NAVI dictated the tempo from the start, showcasing superior coordination and mid-round decision-making. Their defense proved particularly effective at denying space, while their T side conversions were clean and efficient.

FaZe struggled to establish momentum, rarely stringing rounds together, and ultimately fell to a heavy 5-13 defeat. NAVI’s structured approach exposed gaps in FaZe’s setups, preventing any comeback attempt.

Ancient — resistance falls short

On Ancient, NAVI looked set for another comfortable win after building an early lead. However, FaZe responded with improved coordination and began to close the gap, turning the map into a competitive affair.

Despite the late pressure, NAVI maintained composure in the crucial rounds. Their ability to convert high-pressure situations allowed them to edge out a 13-11 victory, sealing the series 2-0 without needing a third map.

NAVI’s dominance over FaZe continues

This result marked NAVI’s second win over FaZe during the tournament, underlining a clear stylistic advantage. Across both meetings in Fort Worth, NAVI consistently outperformed FaZe in key areas:

• More effective mid-round adaptations
• Stronger defensive setups
• Higher consistency in closing rounds

FaZe had entered the semi-final with momentum after an impressive victory over G2 in the quarter-finals, but they were unable to translate that performance against a more disciplined NAVI side.

Road to the final: revenge narrative builds

With this win, NAVI advance to the grand final where they will face Team Vitality in a best-of-five series. The matchup carries added significance as a rematch of the BLAST Open Rotterdam final, where Vitality previously came out on top.

NAVI now have the opportunity to:

• Claim their first BLAST Rivals title of the season
• Avenge their earlier loss to Vitality
• Cement their status as one of the most consistent teams of 2026 so far

FaZe exit in top four

For FaZe, the tournament ends in the semi-finals despite a strong lower-bracket push. Their victory over G2 demonstrated their potential, but inconsistency against top-tier opposition—particularly NAVI—remains a key issue.

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NAVI head into the grand final in peak form, having shown tactical discipline, resilience under pressure, and a clear edge in high-level matchups. The upcoming clash with Vitality will determine whether their dominant run culminates in a trophy—or if Vitality once again proves to be their biggest obstacle.