The group stage of PGL Astana 2025 concluded with numerous standout individual performances. Despite the pressure and intensity of the matches, some players managed not only to remain consistent but also became key drivers behind their teams’ success. Below is a list of the top five players by HLTV rating, who stood out as the brightest stars of this stage.
stavn (Astralis) — 1.22
Despite internal challenges within Astralis, stavn managed to stay focused and delivered a strong individual performance. His consistency was one of the key factors in the team’s progression to the quarterfinals, where they will face NAVI.
His best match came against paiN, where he recorded 41 kills, averaged 119.7 damage per round, and posted a 1.81 rating across two maps.
senzu (The MongolZ) — 1.24
The MongolZ were among the first to advance from the group stage with a flawless 3-0 record. Following their impressive showing at IEM Melbourne (3–4th place), the team continues to prove they’re a serious contender. At this tournament, senzu emerged as the team’s key player.
In a close series against FURIA that went the full distance, senzu recorded 54 kills, averaged 91.2 damage per round, and earned a 1.31 rating.
malbsMd (G2) — 1.24
Although G2 were eliminated in the group stage, malbsMd left a strong impression. Playing with coach TaZ instead of huNter-, the team still showed promise, and malbsMd was the standout force.
He delivered his best performance against BIG, with 46 kills, 120.6 ADR, and an impressive 1.87 rating — one of the highest single-match performances of the entire stage.
sjuush (NiP) — 1.28
sjuush has been a bright spot for NiP fans. After joining from Heroic, he quickly adapted to the new lineup and became a key figure in their advancement to the playoffs. His stability and experience helped NiP perform at a high level.
His standout match came against Virtus.pro, where he put up 58 kills, 89.7 ADR, and a 1.48 rating across three maps.
donk (Spirit) — 1.61
donk once again proved his superstar status with a phenomenal group stage. Spirit finished 3-0, largely thanks to donk’s sharp aim, aggressive style, and excellent decision-making that directly impacted their success.
His best match was against Astralis, where he tallied 45 kills, averaged 118.5 damage per round, and finished with a 1.84 rating.
With the playoffs ahead, every round and decision could define the tournament. donk, sjuush, senzu, and stavn will have a chance to show that their group stage dominance was just the beginning. Now the real challenge begins — and we’ll soon see who steps up on the big stage at PGL Astana 2025.
