On May 16, the PGL Major Astana 2025 quarterfinals will feature one of the most intriguing matchups: The MongolZ, who broke expectations in the group stage, will face Aurora Gaming, who overcame a tough start but showed resilience and quality. This match will be a true test for both teams — in terms of mental endurance and tactical adaptability.
Road to the Playoffs
The MongolZ have been one of the biggest surprises of the tournament. They went through the Swiss stage undefeated, beating MIBR, FURIA, and most impressively, Natus Vincere — and with a clean 2–0. Their win over NAVI made headlines, with both analysts and fans noting that The MongolZ didn’t just win — they outplayed one of the favorites tactically and individually.
Aurora Gaming began the tournament under pressure, with losses to BIG and NAVI, forcing them into must-win territory. However, they pulled together and won three matches in a row — against HOTU, Ninjas in Pyjamas, and ODDIK. The last two series were particularly strong, showing that Aurora can read their opponents well and execute game plans with precision.
Team Form: Current Shape and Key Players
The MongolZ play an explosive, high-tempo style with frequent peeks, unorthodox movement, and strong mid-round map control. The spotlight is on bLitz and Senzu — the former being the stabilizing leader, the latter a fiery aggressor capable of swinging rounds on his own. The team mixes standard setups with surprising rotations, keeping opponents on their toes.
Aurora Gaming, by contrast, rely on structure, discipline, and precise timing. MAJ3R leads both in and out of the server, while XANTARES and woxic form the team’s core firepower. XANTARES thrives in space and can dominate when comfortable, while woxic reliably wins sniper duels even against top-tier AWPers. Aurora’s game is about control and smart adaptation.
Map Pool: Who Has the Advantage?
The MongolZ look strongest on Mirage and Inferno, with win rates of 71% and 75% respectively. These maps suit their playstyle, allowing early map control and explosive T-side strategies. They are likely to avoid Train, where their performance has been the weakest.
Aurora, on the other hand, shine on Anubis, Nuke, and Mirage. Their Anubis is a tactical machine, while Nuke showcases their synergy and coordination. Dust2 is their weakest map and will likely be banned. Since both teams share comfort on Mirage, it could be the deciding battlefield.
Expected vetoes:
- The MongolZ ban Train
- Aurora ban Dust2
- Likely maps: Anubis, Mirage, Inferno
Key Matchups
bLitz vs XANTARES – An emotional fragger versus a disciplined all-rounder. If bLitz catches fire, Aurora will need to adjust their tempo.
Senzu vs woxic – An AWP duel that will influence early-round control and map pressure.
Techno vs MAJ3R – A clash of in-game leaders: Techno plays fast and reactive, while MAJ3R brings calculated, strategic depth.
What the Community Thinks
On social media and forums, fans are calling this the “hidden final” — both teams have shown mature, confident CS. HLTV user KaLaSh23 said:
“This is the one match where no outcome would surprise me. Aurora are super consistent, but The MongolZ showed they’re fearless and ready for anyone.”
Reddit discussions also highlight XANTARES vs MongolZ as a “personal battle,” referencing past struggles of Eternal Fire in Asian qualifiers.
Prediction
On paper, it’s a close match. In terms of form — both teams are in great shape. But considering map pool depth, clutch consistency, and mental resilience, The MongolZ hold a slight edge.
Prediction: The MongolZ win 2–1.
The match between The MongolZ and Aurora Gaming is expected to be tight and competitive. Both teams are in good form and have the tools to challenge each other. In the end, it will come down to details — map choices, round execution, and composure in key moments. A close fight awaits.
