Vitality confidently defeated Mongolz in the IEM Katowice 2025 Semi-Final

The first map, Mirage, was Mongolz’s pick, but Vitality played as an aggressive and dynamic force, winning both pistol rounds and a crucial 1v1 clutch. Mongolz’s signature composure gradually turned into frustration as the game progressed.

On the second map, Nuke, Mongolz started strong by winning the pistol round on the CT side. However, Vitality remained unfazed, executing a well-coordinated A-site take in round three—1-2. In a stylish moment, Flamez passed a flashbang to apEX by shooting it across the ground with his Glock, allowing apEX to throw it at the perfect moment. An entry kill from Flamez and another well-planned attack secured the round for Vitality.

Vitality dictated the pace, dominating outside control and repeatedly hitting A-site. Mongolz switched to a passive default setup, lacking the aggressive plays they needed—5-2. Vitality marched confidently towards the grand final of a tournament they had yet to win. Despite their dominant play, the team remained composed—apEX was notably more reserved in celebrating than on the first map.

At the end of the first half, Mongolz attempted some proactive plays and secured two more rounds—8-4 in favor of Vitality. However, their T-side struggles continued, and they failed to recover from the psychological toll of the big stage. The young squad only managed to show glimpses of competitiveness in the first half of Mirage and by scraping together a few late-round wins.

Vitality closed out Nuke 13-8, securing a 2-0 victory in the BO3 series. The European squad will face the winner of NAVI vs. Team Spirit in tomorrow’s grand final.

Player apEX reached the grand final for the first time in 11 years, but he remained reserved in his comments ahead of tomorrow's match.