The second round of the Swiss stage at PGL Bucharest 2026 once again highlighted how competitive the field is, even between teams of different tiers. Both series followed different scripts, but ended the same way — favorites securing wins through adaptation and composure in key moments. 3DMAX survived a tough battle against Voca (2–1), recovering after a shaky start, while Astralis defeated B8 (2–1) in a tightly contested series, taking an important step toward the playoffs.
3DMAX vs Voca — a comeback built on resilience
This series turned into one of the most chaotic of the round. Voca started strong and looked capable of pulling off an upset, but couldn’t maintain their level across the full distance.
Dust2 — Voca punish early mistakes (13:10)
The American side capitalized on 3DMAX’s unstable start. They controlled space better, won opening duels, and consistently forced their opponents into reactive positions. 3DMAX looked disconnected, struggled in trading, and failed to control the tempo.
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Anubis — response from 3DMAX (13:8)
On their own pick, 3DMAX completely reset the series. They increased the pace, used utility more effectively, and quickly regained control. Voca failed to adjust and began losing initiative.
Ancient — a marathon finish (19:16)
The decider became a true endurance test. Both teams traded rounds back and forth, but in clutch situations, 3DMAX looked more composed. Overtime proved decisive — and experience made the difference. 3DMAX executed better under pressure and closed out the map.
Lucky — the difference maker
The standout player of the series was Lucas “Lucky” Chastang, who carried a massive load:
- 71–49 K-D
- 92.8 ADR
- 1.51 rating
His consistency and impact across all phases of the game allowed 3DMAX to recover and secure the win. On Voca’s side, nosraC (1.18 rating) delivered a solid performance, but lacked the support needed to close out the series.
Astralis vs B8 — class in key moments
The second series was more structured, but no less intense. B8 remained competitive throughout, but Astralis showed a higher level in decisive moments.
Mirage — a battle to the limit (16:12)
The opening map was a constant exchange of rounds. B8 held their ground, but Astralis were more effective in clutches and closed it out in overtime.
Nuke — B8 strike back (13:8)
The Ukrainian side responded with a strong showing, powered by better individual performances and a solid T side. They leveled the series and put Astralis under pressure.
Ancient — Astralis take control (13:8)
On the decider, Astralis looked more disciplined. They managed their economy better, avoided critical mistakes, and closed the series with confidence.
Staehr — consistency and impact
The key player for Astralis was Victor “Staehr” Staehr, who delivered a strong and stable performance:
- 58–52 K-D
- 81.2 ADR
- 1.23 rating
His mid-round impact and composure in key situations played a crucial role. jabbi (1.20) also contributed significantly, as Astralis functioned as a well-balanced unit. For B8, npl (1.26) and esenthial (1.20) stood out, but the team lacked consistency as a whole.
VRS implications — important shifts
This round had a direct impact on the rankings:
- Astralis +22 — strengthening their top position
- 3DMAX +20 — stabilizing their standing
- B8 -7 — losing momentum
- Voca -11 — dropping further
In a tightly contested Major race, these changes could prove decisive.
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Experience makes the difference
This round once again confirmed a key trend of the tournament: in close matches, it’s not just about firepower — it’s about adaptation. 3DMAX won through resilience and composure. Astralis secured victory through discipline and control in key moments. For the winners, it’s another step toward the playoffs. For the losers, the margin for error is already gone.
