Reigning Major champions Team Vitality secured a 2-0 victory over Natus Vincere in the opening match of Day 3 of the final group stage, becoming the third team to qualify for the Budapest playoffs alongside FURIA and Spirit.
Vitality came out strong on Inferno, but they had to battle hard to close out their map pick. Ihor “w0nderful” Zhdanov once again delivered exceptional form, with the Ukrainian AWPer producing several standout rounds that pushed the game to all 24. In the end, Vitality edged out a tight 13-11 win.
Déjà vu on Train
Shahar “flameZ” Shushan finished Inferno at the bottom of Vitality’s scoreboard, and his struggles continued on Train. NAVI once again put up resistance, but Mathieu “ZywOo” Herbaut, William “mezii” Merriman, and Robin “ropz” Kool stepped up with confident, composed performances. Their impact proved decisive as Vitality secured another close 13-11 victory to close the series.
After a shaky start to the Major with an opening loss to FaZe, Vitality have now bounced back with three straight wins. Dan “apEX” Madesclaire’s squad can now rest and prepare for their playoff run, which will begin on either Thursday or Friday.
Vitality – NAVI 2-0 (13-11, 13-11)
Player of the Match: Ihor “w0nderful” Zhdanov – 1.43 rating
