Team Spirit Extend Dominant Record Against NAVI to 11–2 and Secure IEM Kraków 2026 Playoffs Spot

Team Spirit Cruise Past NAVI to Reach Playoffs at IEM Kraków 2026

Team Spirit have officially booked their spot in the playoffs at IEM Kraków 2026, defeating fellow CS2 powerhouse Natus Vincere (NAVI) in a convincing 2–0 victory (16–14 Mirage, 13–3 Dust2) in the upper bracket of Group A — a result that reinforces Spirit’s long-standing dominance in their rivalry.

With this win, Spirit’s head-to-head advantage over NAVI now stands at a commanding 11 wins to 2 losses since integrating Danil “donk” Kryshkovets into their lineup.

Match Recap – Key Moments

• Mirage (16–14):
  A tightly contested opener saw Spirit edge out NAVI in overtime. A pivotal performance from donk, who racked up an impressive kill count, helped Spirit overcome late pushes by NAVI to secure the map.

• Dust2 (13–3):
  Spirit dominated from the start. Their coordination and mid-round decision making overwhelmed NAVI, resulting in a swift map close and a clean series victory without needing a third map.

According to match statistics, Spirit’s tactical depth and crisp execution across both maps kept NAVI unable to mount a serious comeback.

Standings and What’s Next

• Spirit will now face G2 Esports in the Group A seeding match — the winner advancing directly to the semifinals.

• NAVI, having dropped into the lower bracket, are set to play FURIA next — a rematch of their StarLadder Budapest Major quarterfinal confrontation after both teams fell in upper bracket play.

Context: Spirit’s Kraków Run

This victory wasn’t Spirit’s first strong showing at IEM Kraków:

• Earlier in the tournament, they started their campaign by defeating Astralis 2–0, showcasing strong early form.

Spirit’s consistency and ability to perform in high-pressure matchups have made them one of the favorites to go deep in this event.

NAVI’s Position

For NAVI, this loss relegates them to the lower bracket — meaning a loss next will eliminate them from the tournament. Given their historical rivalry with Spirit, the result is notable, highlighting Spirit’s current edge.