The third-place decider at PGL Cluj-Napoca 2026 ended in dominant fashion as MOUZ defeated The MongolZ 2–0, closing the event on a strong note after their semi-final disappointment. Mirage was one-sided from the start, while Inferno showcased MOUZ’s superior structure and late-round control. For The MongolZ, the loss marks a difficult end to an otherwise impressive playoff run. For MOUZ, it is a statement rebound performance.
Road to the third-place match — how they got here
MOUZ’s path:
- 2–1 vs Natus Vincere
- 2–0 vs FUT
- 0–2 vs Vitality
- 2–1 vs PARIVISION
- Semi-final loss vs PARIVISION
MOUZ showed flashes of elite form throughout the event, including a strong win over NAVI. However, their semi-final defeat to PARIVISION exposed inconsistency in high-pressure moments. The third-place match offered a chance to reset and finish strong.
The MongolZ’s path:
- 2–1 vs paiN
- 2–1 vs B8
- 1–2 vs Vitality
- 2–1 vs Natus Vincere
- 2–1 vs Furia
- Semi-final loss vs Vitality
The MongolZ once again proved their resilience in Swiss, particularly with a statement win over NAVI. Even in defeat to Vitality, they remained competitive. However, after a taxing semi-final, energy levels became a question heading into this series.
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MOUZ 2–0 The MongolZ
Mirage — total control (13–6)
Mirage, picked by The MongolZ, quickly slipped out of their hands. MOUZ’s CT side dismantled early mid control attempts, and torzsi’s AWP denied space round after round. Spinx and Brollan provided consistent rifle impact, while xertioN controlled rotations effectively. The MongolZ struggled to find coordinated entries, and economic pressure mounted early.
MOUZ closed Mirage 13–6 with minimal resistance.
Inferno — disciplined finish (13–10)
Inferno proved more competitive, but MOUZ remained in control of key moments. Their defensive setups limited 910’s aggressive openings, and late-round trading favored the European squad.
Ádám “torzsi” Torzsás led the series with (1.34 rating), Spinx (1.30 rating) and Brollan (1.25 rating) supported with consistent fragging, while The MongolZ struggled to convert mid-round advantages. At 10–10, MOUZ tightened their setups and closed the final three rounds cleanly to seal the 2–0 victory.
Match statistics
Player of the Match — Ádám “torzsi” Torzsás
Across two maps:
- 35–18 K-D
- +4.22% swing
- 82.7 ADR
- 85.7% KAST
- 1.34 rating
Beyond the numbers, torzsi dictated the pace on Mirage and delivered crucial opening picks on Inferno, preventing The MongolZ from building momentum.
Tactical difference — energy and execution
After their semi-final defeat, MOUZ approached this match with urgency. Their spacing was cleaner, utility usage sharper, and communication visibly improved compared to the previous day. The MongolZ, meanwhile, lacked the same explosiveness seen earlier in the tournament. Individual impact from 910 (1.24 rating) kept Inferno competitive, but the team could not match MOUZ’s consistency across both maps.
VRS impact
- MOUZ: +15 points (1909 → 1924)
- The MongolZ: −9 points (1674 → 1665)
MOUZ strengthen their position inside the world’s top five, while The MongolZ remain in the top ten despite a small drop.
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What’s next?
MOUZ conclude PGL Cluj-Napoca 2026 in third place, showing resilience after a tough semi-final loss. Their ability to reset and dominate the decider match highlights their depth and competitive maturity. The MongolZ leave Cluj with valuable experience and another deep playoff run. Though the final day ended in defeat, their trajectory remains upward. In Cluj, MOUZ ensured their campaign finished with authority.
