French team 3DMAX pulled off a stunning 2:1 victory over Natus Vincere, while Team Vitality confidently defeated HOTU (2:0) in the third round of the ESL Pro League Season 22 group stage. These results allowed both French rosters to advance to the 2:1 stage, where they will compete for playoff spots, while NaVi and HOTU drop to the 1:2 stage, now standing just one step away from elimination.
ESL PRO LEAGUE S22
The ESL Pro League is one of the most prestigious regular tournaments within the ESL Pro Tour system, highlighting the most consistent teams of the season. A successful performance in the group stage earns crucial VRS points that influence the global ranking and paves the way to the league’s final phase — the main event of the 2025 autumn season. For 3DMAX, this is a historic opportunity to solidify their position in the world’s top 10, while for Vitality, it is a chance to reclaim their status as one of the main contenders.
3DMAX VS NATUS VINCERE — 2:1
- Inferno (3DMAX pick) — 13:11 for 3DMAX. The French side started strong on their pick — Maka and Graviti held their defense confidently, denying NaVi any rhythm.
- Train (NaVi pick) — 13:11 for Natus Vincere. The Ukrainian club managed to equalize thanks to individual brilliance from w0nderful and Aleksib, but that was the last word from “Born to Win.”
- Nuke (decider) — 13:8 for 3DMAX. On the deciding map, the French squad completely controlled the game, executing aggressive rotations and displaying sharp aim.
Player of the Match — Bryan “Maka” Canda
- K-D: 56–42
- ADR: 84.8
- Rating 3.0: 1.27
Impact: Maka was the driving force behind 3DMAX’s victory — his remarkable consistency and leadership helped the team overcome the favorite. His sniper precision on Inferno and decisive clutches on Nuke made the difference.
VITALITY VS HOTU — 2:0
- Overpass (HOTU pick) — 13:8 for Vitality. The European powerhouse showed confidence and full control from start to finish. ropz and mezii dominated the duels, leaving no chance for the opponent.
- Dust2 (Vitality pick) — 13:5 for Vitality. Absolute dominance from the very beginning — apEX read the opponent’s strategy perfectly, while ZywOo and flameZ sealed the rout.
Player of the Match — Robin “ropz” Kool
- K-D: 30–13
- ADR: 83.4
- Rating 3.0: 1.30
Impact: The Estonian star delivered one of his best performances in recent months. His composure and precision on Dust2 turned the series into a one-sided Vitality showcase.
VRS RANKINGS AFTER THE MATCHES
- 3DMAX: +39 (1681, #10)
- Vitality: +29 (1894, #5)
- Natus Vincere: −18 (1753, #9)
- HOTU: −2 (1362, #33)
The French teams continue their rise in the global rankings, while NaVi drop further, slipping to the edge of the top 10. Despite the loss, HOTU still have a chance to advance, though their next match will be decisive.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE TEAMS
3DMAX will face MOUZ tomorrow, October 7, in a 2:1 stage match where the winner will earn a playoff ticket. The French squad are in excellent form, but MOUZ remain one of the most consistent teams of the season.
Vitality will meet G2 Esports the same day. For the French powerhouse, it’s an opportunity to reach the 3:1 stage and secure a playoff spot, while G2 will fight to regain their top form.
Natus Vincere are now in a critical position — they will face HOTU tomorrow in the 1:2 stage, where a loss would mean elimination from the ESL Pro League.
