Natus Vincere have concluded their Pro League run, exiting the tournament following a group-stage loss to PARIVISION. Katowice presented a perfect opportunity to officially secure a Major spot, but the team failed to capitalize on it. Despite this, NAVI still hold a 90% chance of qualifying for PGL Singapore. Having attended all 24 previous Majors, missing the upcoming event would be a massive blow for the "Born to Win" squad.
Team captain Aleksi "Aleksib" Virolainen noted that the squad showcased a different, improved game at this event but couldn't carry it over the finish line. In the crucial match against PARIVISION, the players dropped three key 1vX rounds on the CT side and lost a critical round despite having a 5v3 advantage. According to the captain, NAVI often win their opponent's map pick but falter on their own, meaning the team desperately needs to improve their performance on deciding third maps.
Mirage remains a glaring issue, with the team suffering their fifth consecutive loss on the map. Aleksib suggests that their past confidence on Mirage might have led them to neglect it during practice. Currently, NAVI's historically strong T-side looks as though the players have never played the map before.
Looking ahead, Natus Vincere have two tournaments remaining before Major invites are finalized (including PGL and a Beijing event), along with an event in Bucharest and a planned bootcamp. Aleksib emphasized that he doesn't currently feel any pressure regarding the risk of missing the Major, though he acknowledges that a setback at the next event could leave the team with their "backs against the wall."
The primary goal for the roster remains a long-awaited playoff run, which is vital for the team's mental state. "We need to enjoy the game more and feel the passion. All these hurdles and setbacks make you overthink and do funny stuff in your head that you're not supposed to do," concluded Aleksib.
As a reminder, ESL Pro League Season 24: All Playoff Participants Decided — Who Surprised and Who Failed the Swiss Stage
