The third day of the Swiss Stage at PGL Masters Bucharest 2025 delivered two compelling stories. The Australian squad FlyQuest secured a crucial 2–1 victory over 3DMAX, while paiN Gaming from Brazil dominated B8 2–0, becoming one of the first teams to guarantee a playoff spot. Both matches highlighted the gap in preparation and consistency — and had a notable impact on the Valve Regional Standings (VRS).
Road to Round 3
For FlyQuest, this series was another display of consistency and discipline. After a strong win over fnatic, the Oceanic roster maintained their momentum, keeping their playoff ambitions alive. The series was led by Vexite, whose versatility and composure in key moments once again proved decisive.
3DMAX, in contrast, continue to oscillate between strong firepower and lack of structure — as seen in their confident 2–0 win over SAW but disappointing 0–2 loss to B8 earlier. Against FlyQuest, the French team managed to take only one map despite solid performances from Maka and Lucky. On Dust2, however, they crumbled under pressure and lost control of the match.
For paiN Gaming, this Bucharest campaign is shaping up to be a story of resurgence. The Brazilians have already defeated Gentle Mates and GamerLegion, and now swept B8 without dropping a map. Their structured yet aggressive style, supported by excellent communication, continues to shine.
B8, on the other hand, struggled to match paiN’s tempo. Despite a strong start to the event (wins over Astralis and 3DMAX), the Ukrainian roster couldn’t break through the disciplined setups of paiN. Even with solid attempts from headtr1ck and kensizor, the team lacked stability and synergy when it mattered most.
read more
FlyQuest vs 3DMAX
Result: 2–1 (13–9 Train, 8–13 Inferno, 13–10 Dust2)
- Train — controlled start by FlyQuest
FlyQuest looked confident on their map pick, displaying a disciplined and organized defense. Vexite and INS consistently shut down 3DMAX’s flanks, while jks provided experience and composure in clutch moments. The Australians closed out the first map 13–9.
- Inferno — short-lived French revival
3DMAX came alive on Inferno, finally showcasing their strengths. Maka and Lucky dictated the pace, while Ex3rcice added aggressive pressure from mid. After several solid defensive rounds, the French evened the scoreline 13–8.
- Dust2 — FlyQuest’s class prevails
On the decider, FlyQuest looked unshakable. Vexite once again led the way (56–45, 1.15 rating), supported by regali and INS. Despite late resistance from 3DMAX, the Aussies stayed composed and closed the map 13–10 to secure a well-earned series victory.
Player of the Match — Declan “Vexite” Portelli
- K–D: 56–45
- ADR: 90.5
- KAST: 77.3%
- Rating 3.0: 1.15
The young Australian star continues to be FlyQuest’s backbone. His calm under pressure and precision in clutch situations secured several key rounds on Dust2.
paiN vs B8
Result: 2–0 (13–8 Dust2, 13–10 Mirage)
- Dust2 — dominant opening from paiN
paiN combined sharp aggression with tactical patience. biguzera and nqz dominated across the board, leaving no room for B8’s attack to build momentum. The Brazilians claimed the first map 13–8 with confidence and control.
- Mirage — securing the clean sweep
On B8’s map pick, the Ukrainians tried to fight back but paiN looked too organized and adaptable. snow and dgt remained consistent, while biguzera once again led by example, closing out the series 2–0 and confirming paiN’s playoff spot.
Player of the Match — Rodrigo “biguzera” Bittencourt
- K–D: 37–24
- ADR: 93.9
- KAST: 77.3%
- Rating 3.0: 1.45
The captain of paiN once again proved why he’s considered the heart of the team. His composure, tempo control, and leadership in key rounds allowed the squad to comfortably secure qualification.
Valve Regional Standings (VRS) Impact
The wins for FlyQuest and paiN caused significant shifts in the global rankings.
- FlyQuest earned an impressive +109 points, jumping from 38th to 33rd place (1231 → 1340 pt). The Oceanic lineup continues to demonstrate growth and consistency — positioning themselves as legitimate playoff contenders.
- 3DMAX, however, lost 28 points, remaining in 12th place (1735 → 1707 pt). Despite solid potential, the French team’s LAN inconsistency continues to hold them back.
- Meanwhile, paiN Gaming rose from 17th to 16th place, gaining +42 points (1525 → 1567 pt). Their dominant performance places them among the frontrunners for a playoff run in Bucharest.
- B8, in contrast, dropped 14 points, slipping from 16th to 17th place (1526 → 1512 pt). Despite the setback, the Ukrainian team still has a chance to advance, though their next match will be decisive.
read more
Symbolism of the Day
The day in Bucharest showcased how diverse regional styles can shape the global CS2 landscape. FlyQuest embodied the structured, methodical approach of the Oceanic scene, proving it can stand toe-to-toe with Europe. paiN, on the other hand, reinforced that Brazilian Counter-Strike remains dangerous when discipline meets passion. For 3DMAX and B8, the message was clear: without stability and composure on LAN, even skilled teams struggle to maintain their footing in a competitive Swiss format.
PGL Masters Bucharest 2025 continues to surprise with its intensity and unpredictability. FlyQuest and paiN proved that top-tier performance isn’t limited to the global top 10 — their victories serve as another reminder that in modern CS2, any team can rise to the occasion. As the Swiss Stage approaches its final rounds, the battle for playoff qualification in Bucharest promises to be even fiercer.
