NIP Win Roman Imperium Cup III: Unbeaten Run, Stand-In Success, and Strong Finish to 2025

Ninjas in Pyjamas (NIP) claimed the Roman Imperium Cup III title after an undefeated tournament run, defeating SAW 2–0 in the grand final at the SAW Esports Arena in Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. The victory marks a strong year-end result for the Swedish organization, achieved while competing with a stand-in roster.

NIP Secure Roman Imperium Cup III Trophy Without Dropping a Map

NIP completed the tournament without losing a single map, a feat highlighted by their consistent performances across both the group stage and playoffs.

In the best-of-three grand final, NIP defeated home favorites SAW:

Train — 16–13 (overtime)

Overpass — 16–14 (overtime)

Despite both maps going to overtime, NIP maintained composure in the decisive rounds to close out the series 2–0 and lift the trophy.

Tournament Overview: Roman Imperium Cup III

Location: Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal

Venue: SAW Esports Arena

Dates: December 19–21, 2025

Prize Pool: €5,000+ (reported across multiple sources)

VRS Impact: Event contributed points toward Valve Regional Standings (VRS)

According to RTP Arena, NIP conceded only nine total rounds during their group stage matches, underlining their dominant form heading into the playoffs.

Stand-In Success: Maden Steps in for NIP

One of the key storylines of the event was NIP’s use of Pavle “Maden” Bošković as a stand-in, following the decision to bench Michel “ewjerkz” Pinto earlier in December.

Maden’s inclusion reunited him with Marco “Snappi” Pfeiffer, with whom he previously played on ENCE and Falcons. The temporary lineup adjustment paid off immediately, as NIP showed improved stability and late-round execution throughout the event.

Final Placings

1st — Ninjas in Pyjamas

2nd — SAW

3–4th — Gentle Mates

3–4th — Sharks

NIP also defeated Gentle Mates convincingly earlier in the tournament, further reinforcing their control over the event.

NIP Close Out 2025 on a Positive Note

The Roman Imperium Cup III victory comes at a transitional moment for NIP, following recent roster changes and ongoing rebuilding efforts ahead of the 2026 season. Ending the year with a trophy, an unbeaten record, and strong VRS points provides a confidence boost as the team prepares for upcoming international competition.

The organization celebrated the win on social media, emphasizing the “no maps dropped” achievement and calling it a perfect way to close out the year.