On October 4, 2025, the first round of the ESL Pro League Season 22 began, and from day one, fans witnessed two major storylines.
Brazilian powerhouse FURIA confidently defeated 3DMAX (2:0), while G2 received a technical victory over FaZe Clan, who were unable to field a valid roster.
Both teams will now face each other in the next stage of the group round.
ESL Pro League S22 — Prestige and Ranking Points at Stake
The ESL Pro League is one of the key tournaments of the regular Counter-Strike 2 season.
Victory in the group stage not only secures valuable ESL World Ranking Points but also brings teams closer to the playoff stage of the league.
For FURIA, it’s an opportunity to solidify their position in the world’s top 3, while for G2, it’s a chance to regain stability after inconsistent showings in recent events.
FURIA vs 3DMAX — 2:0 (13:6 Nuke, 13:8 Dust2)
The Brazilians looked dominant right from the opening rounds.
On Nuke, the team showcased disciplined map control, winning 10 of the first 12 rounds on defense.
After switching to Dust2, FURIA kept the momentum — aggressive entries led by YEKINDAR and perfect reads of their opponents left 3DMAX with no room to respond.
Player of the Match — Mareks “YEKINDAR” Gaļinskis
- K-D: 32–22
- ADR: 81.3
- Rating 3.0: 1.49
Impact: The most consistent player of the series, controlling the pace and dominating duels on both maps. His aggression on offense and composure in clutch situations determined the outcome of the match.
3DMAX tried to resist through Maka, who finished with a rating of 1.10, but the team’s overall support fell short.
As a result, FURIA earned three important VRS points, maintaining their status as the world’s #2 team.
G2 vs FaZe — Technical Victory
The controversy surrounding FaZe Clan deepened after it was confirmed the team could not field a roster compliant with ESL regulations.
As a result, FaZe received a technical defeat, while G2 automatically advanced — one of the easiest wins at the start of the season.
Despite the lack of played maps, G2 gained +6 VRS ranking points, improving their global position to #6.
Meanwhile, FaZe lost −12 points, risking a drop out of the top 10 if they fail to resolve their roster issues.
VRS Rankings After the Matches
- FURIA: +3 points → 1899pt (#2)
- G2: +6 points → 1782pt (#6)
- 3DMAX: −10 points → 1645pt (#11)
- FaZe: −12 points → 1701pt (#10)
What’s Next: FURIA vs G2
The next matchup will be a true test for both lineups.
FURIA are currently in top form — YEKINDAR, KSCERATO, and molodoy are demonstrating consistency and synergy that was missing last season.
G2, on the other hand, will have their first real opportunity to display the dynamics of their updated roster — huNter-, SunPayus, and malbsMd are preparing for a fierce clash against one of the most aggressive teams in the world.
The winner of the FURIA–G2 duel will gain a 2:0 advantage in the group and take a big step toward the ESL Pro League S22 playoffs.
For both sides, it’s not just about ranking points — it’s about making a statement of championship ambition right at the start of the season.
