PGL Major Astana 2025 turned out to be a tournament that shattered expectations across the CS2 scene. Instead of the anticipated NAVI dominance, we witnessed a stunning revival of Astralis. Instead of star-studded stability — the collapse of favorites. This event revealed which teams are truly ready for the new CS2 era — and which ones are stuck in the past. Here’s a look at the five biggest surprises and most disappointing failures of the Major.
1. HooXi and Astralis — the tournament’s breakout story
When Astralis announced that HooXi would replace cadiaN at the Major, the community’s reaction was skeptical. His previous run with G2 ended in a kick, and his stats were underwhelming. But in Astana, everything changed — HooXi didn’t just lead, he carried Astralis to the Grand Final.
Astralis showcased a structured style with flexible tactics, solid economy management, and smart map vetoes. HooXi himself posted multiple maps with ratings over 1.00, including a 1.35 on Ancient against NAVI.
“Every player responds well to this playstyle and has the joy and energy to play.” — Staehr, HLTV.org
This was more than a stand-in story — it was the rebirth of an era. After five years of decline, Astralis were back in a Major final — and HooXi was the catalyst.
2. FURIA — an unexpected top-4 finish
Coming into the Major with little pressure and even lower expectations, FURIA surprised everyone. The Brazilian squad struck the perfect balance between aggression and control, while their veterans stepped up when it mattered most.
Their clean 2-0 win over MIBR in the quarterfinals marked the peak of their run. KSCERATO once again served as the backbone of the team, yuurih delivered consistent rifling, and FalleN brought veteran composure and leadership during high-pressure rounds.
“This is the FURIA we’ve been waiting for. Measured. Precise. Cold-blooded.” — @caspercsgo, Twitter
Despite losing the 3rd place decider, FURIA proved they’re still a threat and not just a team of the past.
3. NiP — a surprise return to tier-1 relevance
Ninjas in Pyjamas arrived at the Major with a completely rebuilt lineup: r1nkle (AWP, Ukraine), Snappi (IGL, Denmark), sjuush (ex-Heroic), ewjerkz (Portugal), and arrozdoce (Portugal). Despite limited time together before the event, they quickly showed tier-1 potential.
Their 2-0 victory over G2 (13:10 on Dust2, 13:10 on Nuke) earned them a spot in the playoffs. Though they lost to Spirit (0:2) in the quarterfinals, they demonstrated structure, depth, and competitive fire. r1nkle stood out in particular, providing consistent impact with the AWP and helping set the tempo.
“That was the best NiP performance in months. Finally, a team that fights to the end.” — u/CSBrainstormer, Reddit
“Now we see a team with identity — not just a name, but an idea.” — pimp, HLTV Confirmed
NiP aren’t just a new lineup — they’re a new force.
4. NAVI — the Major’s biggest disappointment
Coming in as the reigning PGL Copenhagen champions and one of the clear favorites, NAVI completely fell apart. Their quarterfinal loss to Astralis (1:2) revealed deep structural issues and a lack of direction.
b1t and iM looked disoriented, lacking confidence. Aleksib failed to adapt during key rounds, and their usually dynamic teamplay felt flat.
“This was NAVI’s worst Major in five years.” — u/CSBrainstormer, Reddit
It might be time to consider roster moves — because the NAVI we knew no longer exists.
5. GamerLegion — collapse into chaos
Just a year ago, GamerLegion were in a Major final. In Astana, they were among the first teams eliminated, losing 0:2 to HOTU in a flat, uninspired showing. The team looked confused, directionless, and emotionally absent.
isak and iM couldn’t find their footing, while the team’s attack rounds were scattered and economic control was lost early on. Worst of all — there was no energy or resilience from the players.
“I’ve never seen GL look so defeated. It’s like they didn’t even try.” — u/TW1ST3Daim, Reddit
“This is the end of the old lineup. Major changes are coming.” — fraglider.pt
And realistically — without a hard reset, this roster won’t survive in the top tier.
PGL Astana 2025 proved one thing above all: there is no such thing as a fixed status in CS2. Teams rise, teams fall, and the only path to victory is through adaptation, cohesion, and identity.
Astralis, NiP, and FURIA embraced that reality — and they reaped the rewards.
NAVI and GamerLegion didn’t — and they paid the price.
