Team Liquid, Passion UA, and 3DMAX have secured the final spots in Stage 3 of the StarLadder Budapest Major 2025, Counter-Strike 2’s major year-end event. Each team triumphed in their crucial fifth-round matches in Stage 2, advancing and eliminating their opponents.
Team Liquid Overcomes Astralis 2-0
Both Team Liquid and Astralis entered Stage 2 with 0-2 records but fought back for a decisive showdown. Liquid took early control on Nuke, leading by 10 rounds at halftime and winning 13-7 despite a Danish comeback. On Mirage, Liquid’s strong second-half defense secured a 13-9 win, completing a clean sweep. This result marks Astralis’ first Major exit since 2022.
Passion UA Defeats M80 in Exciting 2-1 Series
In an all-North American clash, Passion UA rebounded from Stage 2 victories to face M80. The series began with M80’s close 13-11 win on Mirage, putting Passion UA on the brink. Passion UA responded on Inferno with a dominant 13-5 performance. The decider on Train showcased the ex-Complexity veterans’ prowess, clinching 13-7 for an upset victory and eliminating M80. Now the last North American contender in Stage 3, Passion UA joins forces like FURIA and Team Vitality, aiming to sustain their momentum.
3DMAX Sweeps Ninjas in Pyjamas 2-0
NiP, after starting Stage 2 with wins, faltered against FaZe Clan and Parivision, leading to a must-win match against a revitalized 3DMAX, determined to represent France. 3DMAX dominated Ancient, taking 10 first-half rounds and winning 13-3. Train was more challenging; NiP led by two at halftime, but 3DMAX’s strong second-half defense turned the tables for a 13-8 victory and a convincing win.
Stage 3 Anticipation
Stage 2 concludes, setting the stage for Stage 3, where eight advancing teams from Stage 2 will join eight new squads in a five-round Swiss format. The top eight will secure spots in the Playoffs, competing for CS2 glory on the grandest stage.
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