The opening Swiss round of XSE Pro League Guangzhou 2026 features a closely matched European showdown between 3DMAX and Ninjas in Pyjamas. While NiP enter as slight favorites thanks to their stronger recent form and more balanced map pool, 3DMAX have enough firepower to make this a dangerous Bo1. With both teams still searching for consistency, the veto could play a decisive role.
Ninjas in Pyjamas finding stability
NiP arrive in Guangzhou with encouraging momentum after victories over magic, FaZe, Sharks, and HEROIC. Although they suffered a surprising loss to magic shortly afterward, the overall trajectory has been positive.
The team’s biggest strength remains its balanced lineup. n0te leads the squad with a 1.18 rating over the past three months, while Snappi’s leadership continues to improve NiP’s structure in late-round situations. Recent results:
- 2-1 vs magic
- 2-0 vs FaZe
- 0-2 vs magic
- 2-0 vs Sharks
- 2-0 vs HEROIC
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3DMAX need a response
3DMAX have struggled for consistency against quality opposition. Losses to Alliance, magic, Liquid, and G2 exposed several weaknesses, although the French side did defeat MIBR in a convincing performance.
Lucky has been the team’s most reliable player with a 1.08 rating, but 3DMAX will need a much stronger collective showing if they want to upset NiP. Recent results:
- 1-2 vs Alliance
- 0-2 vs magic
- 1-2 vs Liquid
- 13-9 vs MIBR
- 0-2 vs G2
Map pool & veto — NiP have more winning options
Stats (last 3 months):
- Dust2: 3DMAX 55% | NiP 0%
- Mirage: 3DMAX — | NiP 43%
- Inferno: 3DMAX 27% | NiP —
- Nuke: 3DMAX 67% | NiP 80%
- Ancient: 3DMAX 36% | NiP 50%
- Anubis: 3DMAX 33% | NiP 60%
The veto favors NiP overall. While 3DMAX are stronger on Dust2, NiP hold clear advantages on Nuke, Ancient, and Anubis, giving them more flexibility in a Bo1.
Expected veto flow
- 3DMAX will likely look for Dust2.
- NiP should aim for Nuke or Anubis.
- Ancient is another comfortable option for the Swedish side if needed.
Overall, the map pool gives NiP the edge.
Key duel — Lucky vs n0te
Lucky remains 3DMAX’s primary win condition and will need to deliver impactful opening kills to keep his team competitive. On the other side, n0te has been NiP’s most consistent performer, combining strong rifling with reliable clutch play.
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Prediction
This matchup should be competitive early on, but NiP enter with better recent results, a stronger tactical structure, and a more favorable map pool. Unless 3DMAX secure Dust2 and convert their early advantages, Ninjas in Pyjamas should control most of the game.
Prediction: Ninjas in Pyjamas win (13-8)
