The MongolZ Stun NAVI to Secure Playoff Spot at PGL Cluj-Napoca 2026

The MongolZ Stun NAVI to Secure Playoff Spot at PGL Cluj-Napoca 2026

The MongolZ have punched their ticket to the PGL Cluj-Napoca 2026 playoffs, defeating Natus Vincere (NAVI) 2-1 in a pivotal Swiss Stage match on February 17. With this victory, the Mongolian squad clinched a top-eight seed in the tournament and avoided immediate elimination, while NAVI now sit at 2-2 in the group and must win their next match to stay alive.

Inferno – NAVI Take Early Lead

The series opened on Inferno, where NAVI dominated from the outset. After winning the pistol and early rounds, the Ukrainian side built a commanding 9–3 lead on the CT half. b1t stood out with a vintage performance, posting a 1.80 rating as NAVI closed the map convincingly to go up 1–0.

Nuke – MongolZ Fight Back

On their map pick, Nuke, the MongolZ turned the tables behind a remarkable showing from cobrazera. The Mongolian rifler posted a 1.93 rating as his team shut down NAVI’s attacks, limiting them to a single plant until deep into the half. After the side switch, the MongolZ surged ahead, racing to a 12–2 lead. Though NAVI attempted a late comeback, the MongolZ secured the map 13–7 to force a decider.

Mirage – MongolZ Close It Out

The final map was a tense back-and-forth on Mirage. NAVI grabbed an early CT lead and looked to be in control, but the MongolZ rallied with a string of defensive rounds to hit match point. NAVI fought back and even strung together four straight rounds, but crucially cobrazera racked up multiple clutch AWP kills, putting the Mongolian side over the line. This map win sealed the 2–1 series victory and confirmed The MongolZ’s playoff qualification.

Implications for NAVI

For NAVI — who started the tournament with a 2–0 win over Astralis and also beat Aurora — this was a significant setback. With a 2–2 record in Swiss play, they now must win their next match to advance; three losses in the Swiss Stage would mean elimination. Their remaining decider against G2 will determine whether they continue in the tournament or bow out.

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Series Summary