The second Swiss round at PGL Cluj-Napoca 2026 delivered two decisive storylines: MOUZ confidently dismantled Natus Vincere 2–0 in the 1–0 pool clash, while Astralis secured a controlled 2–0 victory over 3DMAX in the 0–1 bracket. Both series highlighted structure and mid-round discipline as the defining factors.
Road to this stage — quick recap
- NAVI opened the event with a solid 2–0 win over Astralis, showing structure and strong individual form from iM and w0nderful.
- MOUZ survived a tough 2–1 series against PARIVISION, bouncing back after a shaky start and taking firm control of the final two maps.
- 3DMAX fell 0–2 to Falcons, struggling to convert key rounds and failing to dictate the pace of the series.
- Astralis were swept 0–2 by NAVI, lacking consistency and now facing early pressure in the Swiss stage.
read more
MOUZ 2–0 Natus Vincere
MOUZ entered the matchup looking to prove their early-round consistency — and did exactly that.
Inferno — controlled pressure (13:9)
On their pick, MOUZ set the tone with well-structured T-side executions and confident banana control. NAVI struggled to stabilize their economy, often finding themselves forced into reactive setups. Dorian “xertioN” Berman led the way with impactful mid-round entries, while Spinx and Brollan ensured strong trading. NAVI showed brief resistance through iM and b1t, but the lack of consistent multi-kill rounds on the CT side limited their comeback potential. MOUZ closed Inferno 13–9 without allowing late drama.
Mirage — momentum never slips (13:7)
Mirage followed a similar script. Once MOUZ gained early control, they dictated the pace and repeatedly punished NAVI’s mid aggression. NAVI’s structure looked hesitant in key rounds, and their stars were kept quiet for long stretches.
Player statistics for the match
Player of the match — Dorian “XertioN” Berman
XertioN once again stood out, finishing the series as Player of the Match with:
29–21 K-D
85.3 ADR
81.0% KAST
1.33 rating
Across both maps, MOUZ displayed composure and superior spacing, securing a clean 2–0 and moving to a 2–0 record in the Swiss stage.
VRS impact
- MOUZ: +30 VRS points
- NAVI: −10 VRS points
A significant early boost for MOUZ in the ranking race.
Astralis 2–0 3DMAX
In the 0–1 pool, Astralis delivered a statement performance to avoid early elimination pressure.
Overpass — total dominance (13:2)
Astralis completely dismantled 3DMAX on their map pick. Their CT setups were airtight, denying map control from the opening rounds. Victor “Staehr” Staehr and phzy controlled key choke points, and 3DMAX failed to establish any meaningful momentum. The 13–2 scoreline reflected Astralis’ tactical superiority and clean execution.
Nuke — closing under pressure (13:11)
The second map was more competitive. 3DMAX adjusted well and found better openings, particularly through Ex3rcice and Maka. However, Astralis’ late-round discipline proved decisive.
Player statistics for the match
Player of the match — Victor “Staehr” Staehr
Staehr again led from the front, finishing the series with:
- 36–27 K-D
- 101.2 ADR
- 1.46 rating
Astralis closed Nuke 13–11 and sealed the series 2–0, keeping their tournament hopes alive.
VRS impact
- Astralis: +36 VRS points
- 3DMAX: −10 VRS points
A valuable recovery win for Astralis in the Swiss system.
read more
What’s next?
MOUZ now advance to the 2–0 pool, one win away from playoff qualification. Their confidence and structure suggest they are settling into tournament form. Astralis stabilize at 1–1 and regain breathing room after their opening loss. Meanwhile, NAVI drop into the 1–1 bracket, and 3DMAX face increasing pressure heading into their next elimination match. PGL Cluj-Napoca 2026 continues to underline a key truth of the Swiss format: early consistency matters — but adaptation decides survival.
