The MongolZ clinch playoff berth in TWC after edging out 9zThe MongolZ clinch playoff berth in TWC after edging out 9z

The MongolZ clinch playoff berth in TWC after edging out 9z

In a tense decider at the Thunderpick World Championship 2025, The MongolZ overcame 9z 2–0, surviving a late surge to lock in a spot in the playoff bracket. Their performance, especially on Ancient, showed resilience and poise under pressure. 

This victory sets up a high-stakes semifinal clash for the Mongolians against Natus Vincere (NaVi). 

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Match breakdown and key moments

Map 1 — Nuke (13-7 to MongolZ)

The MongolZ took control early on Nuke, finishing the first half with a healthy lead (8-4) and closing out the map without letting 9z regain steam. 

Notably, bLitz led the frags with 19 kills and posted a 1.37 rating, anchoring his team’s solid showing. 

Map 2 — Ancient (13-11 to MongolZ)

This was the more dramatic of the two maps. 9z stormed out to a 6–0 start, but MongolZ responded with strong attack side rounds to stay within reach. 

Techno was a standout in the first half with 14 kills and a +7.80% differential. 

The closing stretch tightened exponentially. 9z’s Luken delivered a four-kill round to tie 11–11 after being under immense pressure. 

MongolZ held their cool. After surviving Luken’s heroics, they won the final two rounds to clinch the match and playoff spot. 

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Standout players & stats

• Techno (MongolZ) was the top performer overall, finishing with a 1.35 rating.

• bLitz also impressed, especially on Nuke: 19 kills, 1.37 rating.

• For 9z, Luken’s quad-kill round was the highlight, keeping his team in the fight when the series hung in the balance. 

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Historical & contextual significance

• The MongolZ had previously been eliminated by 9z / OG in ESL Pro League’s Swiss stage, making this moment one of redemption.

• This result shows the Mongolian squad’s growth — pushing past adversity and executing under duress.

• The win also underscores the volatility of CS2’s competitive landscape: underdog squads are increasingly able to challenge more established organizations.