NAVI Defeat New-Look FaZe to Reach BLAST Rivals 2026 Playoffs

Natus Vincere (NAVI) secured a dominant 2-0 victory over a rebuilt FaZe Clan lineup to advance to the BLAST Rivals 2026 Season 1 playoffs, continuing their strong form in CS2 competition.

NAVI Outclass FaZe in Opening Series

The matchup marked FaZe’s first official appearance since major roster and leadership changes, including the departure of in-game leader Finn “karrigan” Andersen. With Russel Van Dulken stepping into the IGL role and stand-in Ryan Aubry joining the squad, FaZe entered the event as underdogs.

NAVI quickly capitalized on their opponent’s lack of cohesion. On Anubis, they stormed to an 11-1 halftime lead before closing the map 13-7. The second map, Ancient, was more competitive, with FaZe leading 10-5 at one point, but NAVI mounted a comeback to seal the series 2-0.

makazze Continues Breakout Performance

A key factor in NAVI’s victory was Drin Shaqiri, who delivered another standout performance. The young rifler ended the series with:

42 kills

99.2 ADR

1.46 rating

His consistency continues to draw praise from NAVI’s captain Aleksi Virolainen.

“He’s playing tremendous, no matter if it’s the group stage or the playoffs,” Aleksib said, highlighting makazze’s growing importance to the team.

FaZe Enter a New Era Without karrigan

FaZe’s rebuild comes after the confirmed departure of Finn Andersen, a long-time leader of the roster. Prior to leaving, karrigan acknowledged the team’s struggles:

“With these performances, it’s not good enough… I just want FaZe back at the top, with or without me.”

The organization also appointed Niclas Krumhorn as head coach, signaling a fresh direction.

Twistzz described the transition as a reset for the team:

“It’s a breath of fresh air… a new captain and a new coach.”

However, he emphasized realistic expectations, noting that the team had only one week of practice with their stand-in.

FaZe Underdogs Amid Limited Preparation

Heading into BLAST Rivals, FaZe openly acknowledged their position:

Limited practice time

New leadership structure

Ongoing roster uncertainty

Twistzz stated the team was aiming for “one or two upsets” to build confidence and improve their Valve Regional Standings (VRS) ranking.

NAVI Build Momentum After ESL Pro League Victory

This result reinforces NAVI’s momentum following their recent win at ESL Pro League Season 23. The team looks increasingly stable and dangerous as they move deeper into BLAST Rivals.

With structured leadership under Aleksib and rising firepower from makazze, NAVI are shaping up as strong contenders for another title.

BLAST Rivals 2026 Format Overview

The BLAST Rivals 2026 Season 1 features eight teams competing in a group stage format:

Two groups of four teams

Top three teams advance to playoffs

Event held in Fort Worth, Texas

NAVI and FaZe compete in Group B alongside FURIA and GamerLegion.