Recently, BLAST published an article analyzing NAVI’s performance after the Major and highlighted the upcoming BLAST Spring Finals as a potential turning point for the CIS team (views expressed are those of the author):
Nothing quite matches the thrill of winning Counter-Strike’s ultimate accolade, the Major title. Throughout CS history, some players are remembered for their tournament brilliance, but no one forgets the IDs of Major champions—this is why every player dreams and strives for that ultimate glory.
For Natus Vincere, the triumph at PGL Copenhagen was followed by a series of setbacks, with disappointing results. They were eliminated in a crucial match by FaZe at EPL S19, the same team they defeated in the Major final, and failed to advance to the playoffs at IEM Dallas, bowing out after losses to Spirit and HEROIC.
Undoubtedly, NAVI remains among CS’s elite teams. According to rankings, they’re still among the favorites for the BLAST Spring Finals, but can they bounce back from their recent downturn in London?
Post-Major Slump
Historically, some teams have experienced downturns after winning Majors, especially those that pulled off surprises. But is this the case for NAVI?
Let’s examine NAVI’s recent record:
In their EPL S19 opener, NAVI comfortably defeated FlyQuest, securing wins on both maps. FlyQuest, despite a strong showing in Malta, was expected to lose. NAVI then faced BIG, a team in transition with new additions JDC and syrsoN. Despite the lack of cohesion, NAVI secured a 2-1 victory with convincing map scores.
Their last group stage match was against Complexity, a strong North American squad that beat Virtus.pro and nearly upset eventual champion MOUZ in the semis. NAVI lost 1-2, but with close map scores and in a decisive match, credit should be given.
In the round of 12, NAVI encountered FaZe, who were still smarting from their Major loss. With rain’s comments about needing to beat NAVI multiple times to move on, it was clear FaZe was highly motivated, and given their recent form, NAVI was at a disadvantage.
In Dallas, NAVI started well, defeating BIG. Facing Spirit next, a red-hot team with only three offline losses since the start of 2024, NAVI’s defeat was not unexpected. Lastly, NAVI lost to a HEROIC without degster due to visa issues, with nicoodoz filling in—a weak spot in their otherwise solid performance.
Individual Form Concerns
Aside from the loss to HEROIC, NAVI’s record isn’t disastrous. However, individual form is a cause for concern.
Some positives emerged from their matches, like iM’s improved performance and b1t showing slight improvement. Their 2021 form was formidable, and if he regains that level, NAVI will become more dangerous.
However, the dip in jL and w0nderful’s performances is a major worry. Their clutch abilities, particularly jL’s, were instrumental in the Major win, and NAVI cannot afford to lose that edge. Similarly, w0nderful’s decline needs addressing, as NAVI needs a top sniper to compete with opponents’ star snipers.
Despite this, faith remains in these talented players, their Major win being evidence. But if the struggle continues, management might intervene, as B1ad3 hinted at potential roster changes if necessary.
While NAVI’s Major victory may seem like a fluke, similar thoughts surrounded the 2018 Cloud9. Yet, NAVI’s success wasn’t purely a stroke of luck; their exceptional aim and tactical prowess make them championship-caliber. The BLAST Spring Finals could provide the perfect platform for NAVI to prove themselves once again.