The Swiss round opener between Liquid and Passion UA shapes up as one of the most intriguing matchups of the opening day. On paper, community expectations lean toward Passion UA, but Liquid have enough experience and individual quality to turn this into a difficult Bo3 series. It’s a clash of contrasting styles: Liquid’s more methodical, slower approach against Passion UA’s aggressive, high-tempo play.
Road to the Match
Liquid’s recent results paint a mixed picture:
- 0–2 vs FUT — issues converting on the T side.
- 1–2 vs G2 — competitive series, but lost key rounds.
- 2–0 vs Ninjas in Pyjamas — confident win built on structure.
- 0–2 vs Falcons — failed to control the pace.
- 2–1 vs Gentle Mates — a tough but important victory.
NAF remains the most consistent impact player, ultimate is gradually gaining confidence on the AWP, and EliGE continues to act as the main initiator. Liquid look strongest when they can slow the game down and impose economic control.
Passion UA arrive in stronger tournament form:
- 0–2 vs Gentle Mates — a poor start that exposed weaknesses.
- 2–0 vs Rebels — complete control of the series.
- 11–13 vs Rebels (Dust2) — a narrow and frustrating loss.
- 2–0 vs Wildcard — aggressive and convincing win.
- 2–1 vs Wildcard — held their nerve in decisive rounds.
try remains the key AWP figure, Senzu and JT consistently create space, and overall the team looks far more cohesive in fast-paced scenarios. Passion UA are most dangerous when they dictate a high tempo and prevent opponents from stabilizing their economy.
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Current Form & Context
Liquid don’t have a deep map pool, but maintain a solid level on Mirage (50%), Inferno (50%), and Nuke (67%). Ancient (33%) remains a problematic map, while Overpass is rarely played. Passion UA, by contrast, have clearly defined strengths: Inferno (80%), Overpass (82%), and Dust2 (60%). Their weaker areas are Mirage (33%) and Nuke (33%), which can be targeted in the veto.
Map Pool & Veto Analysis (Bo3, last 3 months)
- Dust2: Liquid — | Passion UA 60%
- Mirage: Liquid 50% | Passion UA 33%
- Inferno: Liquid 50% | Passion UA 80%
- Nuke: Liquid 67% | Passion UA 33%
- Overpass: Liquid — | Passion UA 82%
- Ancient: Liquid 33% | Passion UA —
- Anubis: —
Likely bans:
- Liquid remove Overpass (82% for Passion UA).
- Passion UA remove Nuke (67% for Liquid).
Likely picks:
- Liquid: Mirage or Inferno.
- Passion UA: Inferno or Dust2.
Decider: Ancient or Mirage — maps where economy management and clutch situations are likely to be decisive.
Head-to-Head
The teams have met before, with both previous victories going to Passion UA — each series ending 2–0. That gives the Ukrainian side a psychological edge, though it doesn’t guarantee a repeat outcome.
VRS & Tournament Context
Liquid (#21, 1415 pts)
- +12 pts for a win
- –20 pts for a loss
Passion UA (#37, 1296 pts)
- +25 pts for a win
- –9 pts for a loss
For Liquid, this is an important match to avoid early pressure in the Swiss stage. For Passion UA, it’s a chance to confirm their status as a dangerous contender and strengthen their VRS position.
Prediction
Passion UA have better current form and a more clearly defined map pool, giving them an edge on paper. However, Liquid are capable of dragging the series into a slower, more controlled scenario where experience and discipline can become decisive. A tight Bo3 with battles on every map is expected.
Expected score: Passion UA 2–1 Liquid
If Passion UA can impose their tempo and avoid economic collapses, they have every chance to open ESL Pro League with another statement win.
