Vitality Defeat 3DMAX to Secure Playoff Spot at IEM Krakow 2026

Team Vitality booked their place on the arena stage at IEM Krakow 2026 after a convincing 2–0 victory over 3DMAX in Group B’s upper-bracket semi-final.

The win sends Vitality directly to the group final and guarantees a playoff appearance in front of a live crowd at the TAURON Arena, while 3DMAX fall to the lower bracket despite an impressive run earlier in the tournament.

Vitality vs 3DMAX — Map Results

Vitality controlled the series from start to finish, closing out both maps with identical scorelines:

Inferno (3DMAX pick): 13–6

Dust2 (Vitality pick): 13–6

Despite 3DMAX winning pistol rounds on both maps, Vitality’s superior mid-round calling and economy management quickly swung momentum back in their favor.

flameZ Dominates Inferno as Vitality Take Early Control

Inferno proved decisive early on thanks to a standout performance from Shahar “flameZ” Shushan, who posted a 1.91 rating, 111 ADR, and won seven of eight opening duels.

3DMAX struggled to convert advantages even after strong starts, repeatedly losing rounds following early picks. Vitality capitalized on these mistakes to build an insurmountable lead on the CT side.

ZywOo Shuts the Door on Dust2

On Dust2, Mathieu “ZywOo” Herbaut delivered a dominant first half on the T side, finishing with 14 kills, four opening duels, and 127 ADR before halftime. Vitality surged to a 9–3 lead, effectively ending any realistic comeback hopes.

A key turning point came after 3DMAX won the second pistol round — only for Dan “apEX” Madesclaire to respond with a FAMAS 4K on the A site, crushing 3DMAX’s economy and momentum.

3DMAX’s Krakow Run Hits Its Ceiling

The loss ends 3DMAX’s upper-bracket journey after a strong showing at IEM Krakow, where they previously defeated FUT Esports, BC.Game, and FaZe Clan.

However, this series reinforced a recurring pattern:
3DMAX have now lost three consecutive series to Vitality without winning a single map, highlighting the current gap between the two French lineups at the elite level.

Speaking earlier in the event after their win over FaZe, Alexandre “bodyy” Pianaro acknowledged the team’s ongoing development:

“We are leveling up, but we are definitely still looking for a system and a way to play.” — bodyy (HLTV)

He also noted the difficulty of maintaining consistency with their aggressive approach:

“This kind of style is hard to consistently replicate.”

Vitality’s Bigger Picture: Arena Pressure and Championship Ambitions

Vitality’s qualification continues their strong rebound after a turbulent previous season. Earlier interviews highlighted the team’s renewed focus on performing under pressure, especially on stage.

Lotan “Spinx” Giladi recently addressed this challenge:

“We need to get used to more pressure than usual… it’s an easy excuse, at least for now.” — Spinx (HLTV)

For Vitality, securing an arena spot is more than just progression — it’s another step toward meeting expectations built around ZywOo’s prime years.

What’s Next at IEM Krakow 2026?

Vitality advance to the Group B upper final with a guaranteed playoff spot

3DMAX drop to the lower bracket, where they will face the winner of NRG vs Team Falcons in an elimination match

With the arena stage looming, Vitality continue to look like one of the strongest contenders for the IEM Krakow title.