Natus Vincere is going to the semi-finals of IEM Cologne 2025 with the recent win against The MongolZ in a tense 2-0 series. NAVI started strong on their T side of the first map but saw The MongolZ take control to finish the half with an 8-4 lead, despite NAVI’s efforts to claw back, including a key triple kill by Aleksi “Aleksib” Virolainen. The MongolZ pushed the match into triple overtime after holding off NAVI’s final rounds in regulation. Finally, NAVI managed to close the map on the CT side.
On the second map, Ancient, the MongolZ seemed to lose their footing. They managed to win just a single round on the T side during the first half and couldn’t overcome the large deficit. NAVI kept their composure and finished the match 13-6, securing their 2-0 series win.
It’s kinda surprising to see The MongolZ struggle so much on Ancient, especially after the intense battle on Inferno. Guess nerves might have gotten to them on the big stage at the LANXESS arena.
Makazze, NAVI’s young Kosovar player, made his big stage debut here. He had a rough start with a 2-9 score and no opening kills in the first half of Inferno, but really came into his own on the CT side. His clutch plays in overtime including the final and last round, were crucial for NAVI’s comeback. Aleksib mentioned how Makazze was pretty shocked before the game but found his smile and confidence as the match went on. It’s always special to see a player find their footing like that in such a high-pressure environment.
With this win, NAVI will face Spirit in the semi-finals. Spirit has been a tough nut to crack for NAVI, winning their last three encounters 2-0. Aleksib acknowledged Spirit as their “kryptonite” from last season but sounded determined to prepare hard and play their best. Do you think NAVI can finally overcome Spirit this time?
Some highlights from the NAVI vs The MongolZ match:
Here’s a Twitch clip of Makazze’s turnaround during the series:
And another clip showing the triple overtime madness:
What a series! NAVI’s persistence paid off, but The MongolZ showed why they’re a top team too. Can NAVI carry this momentum forward? Their next challenge, Spirit, will be no walk in the park.
Let me know your thoughts on this matchup and who you think will take the title at IEM Cologne in the comments below.
