StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 enters its second phase. Stage 2 opens with 16 matches that will shape each team’s path. Some will move closer to the playoffs, while others will fall into survival mode. Stage 1 ended with eight teams advancing, and they now join squads seeded through the Valve Regional Standings. As a result, the first pairings promise one of the most intense starts in recent Major history.
3–0 teams from Stage 1 draw the toughest opponents
Although M80 and FlyQuest finished Stage 1 undefeated, the blind draw was not kind to them.
M80 open Stage 2 against Aurora. The CIS roster has not played a single map in Budapest yet, but it arrives as a top-10 VRS team. This makes Aurora one of the toughest opponents available, especially since the team often gains momentum on LAN.
FlyQuest face an even tougher challenge. Their first opponent is Natus Vincere, a roster known for stability and deep playoff runs. After a clean 3–0 in Stage 1, this match will be FlyQuest’s first real test of championship potential.
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Astralis vs NiP — match of the day and a duel of principles
One of the most dramatic clashes of the opening round is Astralis vs Ninjas in Pyjamas.
- sjuush will meet his former Danish teammates for the first time.
- device will play against NiP, the team with which he experienced one of the brightest periods of his career.
This match is nostalgic, but it is also crucial. Both teams have been inconsistent in recent weeks. Therefore, a winning start may define their entire Stage 2 path.
FaZe get a chance to reset against Passion UA
FaZe enter Stage 2 in a difficult state. The team narrowly avoided elimination in Stage 1 and still struggles with cohesion. Their matchup against Passion UA looks favorable, yet the Ukrainian squad has already shown it can punish mistakes. In a BO1 format, even a small error can ruin a favorite’s run.
Brazilian derby: MIBR vs Imperial
Another highlight of the day is the South American derby between MIBR and Imperial. Both teams are out of form, but internal Brazilian matchups always bring:
- aggression,
- unpredictable decisions,
- and heavy psychological pressure.
In the context of a Major, this meeting could become the most emotional match of the opening round.
Full schedule for StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 Stage 2 — November 29
- 14:00 — Astralis vs Ninjas in Pyjamas
- 14:00 — 3DMAX vs fnatic
- 15:00 — Passion UA vs FaZe
- 15:00 — PARIVISION vs TYLOO
- 16:00 — Natus Vincere vs FlyQuest
- 16:00 — Aurora vs M80
- 17:00 — MIBR vs Imperial
- 17:00 — Liquid vs B8
All matches are BO1. Because of this, the tension increases: favorites cannot afford a slow start, while underdogs have a real chance to cause early upsets.
Skin.Club Pick’em Challenge
Running alongside the event is the Skin.Club Pick’em Challenge. Fans can predict match results, select advancing teams, and earn points. Accurate picks unlock rewards that include premium skins, rare gloves, and knives. The ultimate prize is the iconic AWP | Dragon Lore.
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What’s next? The pressure is only rising
The first day of Stage 2 will clearly show which teams are ready to fight for a playoff spot. The BO1 format fuels chaos, and a single mistake may push a contender into dangerous territory. At the same time, underdogs can turn one big win into a breakthrough moment.
The next two days will be among the most intense of the entire Major. Every map will influence the bracket, affect team confidence, and shape each squad’s chance of reaching the final eight. Stage 1 already produced several surprises. Even so, Stage 2 promises more dramatic twists, unexpected results, and storylines that fans will remember.
The Budapest Major continues to gain momentum. Now, every round can become the moment that turns the entire tournament upside down.
