Virtus.pro Secure Group Stage Spot at the IEM Katowice 2025 with a Dominant Win Over MIBR

On January 31, 2025, the final Play-In matches of Intel Extreme Masters Katowice 2025 took place, determining which teams would claim the last spots in the group stage. For many, these matches felt like mini-finals. One of the most anticipated clashes was MIBR vs. Virtus.pro, so here’s a brief match recap and the key moments.

MIBR vs. Virtus.pro

Virtus.pro had the first map pick, choosing Anubis. After a dominant win against SAW in the previous round, they entered this match in top form. Although MIBR’s 'Lucaozy' shocked everyone with a 1v4 clutch early on, 'electroNic' immediately responded with a four-kill play using an MP9. Despite an intense start, the game quickly shifted in VP’s favor. They closed the first half 9-3 and easily wrapped up the second half 4-1, securing a 13-4 victory on Anubis.

The second map was Ancient, MIBR’s pick. This time, they performed significantly better. Once again, 'Lucaozy' shined in the pistol round with another clutch, solidifying his status as one of the best pistol players in the tournament. The first half was closely contested, with Virtus.pro leading 7-5.

The second half was a thrilling back-and-forth battle. Virtus.pro initially won four consecutive rounds, edging closer to victory, but MIBR refused to back down, answering with four rounds of their own. However, VP’s superior overall play and impressive 1.23 team rating helped them secure the 13-10 win.

With a 2-0 series victory, Virtus.pro advanced to the group stage of Intel Extreme Masters Katowice 2025. Unfortunately, this was the final match for MIBR, as they were eliminated, finishing in 17th-20th place.