Vitality will face off against TheMongolZ in the quarter-final of the StarLadder Budapest Major 2025. Vitality dominated the CS2 scene throughout the first half of the year, winning nine trophies, more than any other team. However, their recent form wasn’t at its best, and they’ve been working hard to return to their championship-winning shape.
TheMongolZ were one of the strongest teams in the world earlier this year, proving it by winning at the Esports World Cup 2025. Since then, they’ve made a surprising roster change and are now aiming to lift another trophy. The last time these two teams met was at the EWC 2025, where TheMongolZ edged out Vitality with a 2-1 victory.
Visit Xplay’s CS2 Pick’em, make predictions for CS2 matches to get Free Rewards. Accurate predictions earn points, in-game currency, and skins – from AWPs to Knives and Gloves. You can participate for Free or in Premium Mode with even more bonuses and a chance to get into the Top 100, where real prizes are awarded.
Contents
Previous Encounter & Player Stats – Vitality vs. TheMongolZ


Team Form & Key Players Ahead of the Quarter-final
Vitality: Searching for Stability Ahead of the Quarter-final

Vitality’s form has been shaky in recent months, and their struggles continued earlier in the group stage when they unexpectedly lost to FaZe in their opening match. The team still hadn’t regained its peak form. In their playoff qualification match against Natus Vincere, they secured two close-map victories largely thanks to their superstar duo, ZywOo and ropz, who reminded everyone why they are among the best players in the world.
Interestingly, flameZ – usually one of the team’s most impactful performers – finished last on the scoreboard in that match. In their dominant period earlier this year, flameZ often carried the roster, so his performance may be a key factor in determining whether Vitality can stabilize and push for another Major title.
TheMongolZ: Adapting After a Bold Roster Change

TheMongolZ made an unexpected roster change when they brought in controlez to replace Senzu, who was one of their top performers. Since the swap, they haven’t secured any trophies, but their overall level hasn’t dropped significantly either.
At this tournament, controlez has been one of their standout players, showing promise and giving fans hope that he was the right choice. Meanwhile, mzinho has been in excellent form – his dominant showing against G2 was crucial in earning their playoff spot.
Heading into the quarter-final, the big question is whether controlez can deliver on the biggest stage of his career so far.
Vitality vs. TheMongolZ – Quarter-final Match Prediction
Vitality have been the stronger team throughout most of 2025, but TheMongolZ have proven time and time again that they can beat giants. If Senzu were still in the lineup, this matchup might be closer – or even tilted in TheMongolZ’s favor. However, with the unpredictability surrounding controlez on such a massive stage, Vitality enters the series as the favorites.
Prediction: Vitality to win the match.
Can TheMongolZ, with their new player, repeat their EWC victory over Vitality? Or will Vitality prove they’re ready to defend their Austin Major title?
We’ll find out this Thursday at 20:00 CET!
If you don’t know where to bet on this match, you can check out our list of top betting sites.
