StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 Stage 3 begins with a clash between FURIA and NAVI — both teams start the Swiss stage with a 0:0 record. The winner immediately takes an important step forward, improving their chances of reaching the playoffs, while the loser will be pushed into a less favorable bracket, where every further mistake can be fatal.
This match has critical importance: FURIA aim to confirm their status as title contenders, while NAVI want to prove that their recent struggles are now behind them.
STARLADDER BUDAPEST MAJOR 2025 STAGE 3 — ROAD TO THE PLAYOFFS
Stage 3 runs from December 4 to 8 in Budapest, where the 16 strongest teams in the world are fighting for StarLadder Major playoff spots. FURIA and NAVI begin this phase with a 0:0 record in the Swiss system — and a win in the opener can significantly simplify their further path.
The format is extremely unforgiving: Bo1 in regular rounds and Bo3 in advancement or elimination matches. Under these conditions, one failed map can destroy any championship ambitions — and unnecessary risks are not forgiven.
HEAD-TO-HEAD — A TENSE HISTORY OF CLASHES
FURIA and NAVI have faced each other many times — and often it was NAVI who closed out decisive maps in these series. Even despite a major roster upgrade for FURIA this year, Major matches are written under enormous pressure, where experience matters just as much as mechanics.
NAVI maintain a championship mentality and composure in key moments — and that may become their main advantage in a Bo1.
CURRENT FORM
- FURIA — aggression that delivers results
FURIA are in phenomenal form: the team is on a winning streak, dominating in raw duels and showing a creative style led by the legendary duo FalleN + KSCERATO. In a Bo1, their pace can be a serious problem for anyone.
- NAVI — back in the game
NAVI have stabilized after a difficult start to the season. The team looks calmer, their in-game identity has returned, and b1t continues to be a defensive wall in crucial moments. In a Bo1, the European structure and patience can dismantle FURIA’s tempo-focused plans.
MAP POOL & VETO
Statistics from the last 3 months (FURIA | NAVI):
- Dust2: 55% | 75%
- Mirage: 62% | 86%
- Inferno: 61% | 56%
- Nuke: 82% | 54%
- Train: 78% | 71%
- Overpass: 82% | —
- Ancient: — | 57%
Expected veto:
- FURIA will almost certainly remove Dust2, currently one of NAVI’s most comfortable maps.
- NAVI will logically ban Overpass — a strong FURIA map with unpredictable setups.
Likely picks:
- FURIA: Nuke — a map where they excel in tempo control and space creation
- NAVI: Mirage — the key battleground for NAVI’s clutch masters
Decider: Train — where NAVI are traditionally stronger in late rounds and 4v5 scenarios.
KEY DUELS
- KSCERATO vs b1t — stability vs stability
- FalleN vs w0nderful — an AWP battle of generations
- YEKINDAR vs iM — aggressive entries fighting for survival
In a Bo1, every duel for mid control can change the entire script.
PREDICTION
FURIA are incredibly strong right now, but NAVI approach the match with structure, discipline, and a clear understanding of the map pool. Under such conditions, Bo1 often favors the team with fewer micro-mistakes — and that is NAVI.
Prediction from Mauisnake: NAVI will win
Predicted result: NAVI 1–0 FURIA
