After the intense Swiss round in the Elimination stage, the last eight teams standing in the Perfect World Shanghai Major were decided. They will compete in the single-elimination brackets. Each matchup will be best-of 3 (bo3) until the winner of this Major is decided.
Playoff teams preview
The MongolZ
The MongolZ is making history as the first-ever Asian team to reach the playoffs of a Major. Undefeated in both the Opening and Elimination stages, the team’s dominant form has showcased tactical depth and resilience. Could this Cinderella story culminate with the Mongolians lifting the trophy?
MOUZ
MOUZ continues to solidify its position as a top contender. With a mix of veteran experience and young talent, it navigated the Swiss rounds with confidence. The team’s recent results suggest it is peaking at the right time for the Playoffs.
Spirit
Led by breakout stars like Danil "donk" Kryshkovets and Dmitriy "sh1ro" Sokolov, Spirit has been a consistent force throughout the tournament. It’s strategic precision and individual brilliance makes it a dangerous opponent for any team.
Liquid
The North American powerhouse has weathered a tough year but has found its stride in Shanghai. With a veteran lineup that thrives under pressure, Liquid has the tools to challenge even the strongest opponents.
G2
G2, currently the top-ranked team in the world, has lived up to its billing with dominant performances. Its star-studded roster and tactical prowess make it the team to beat in the Playoffs.
HEROIC
HEROIC’s journey has been steady but unspectacular so far. Known for its structured playstyle and clutch moments, the team has the potential to surprise any team on this high-stakes stage.
Vitality
As one of the most consistent teams in the CS scene, Vitality boasts a roster full of proven winners, especially Mathieu "ZywOo" Herbaut, Lotan "Spinx" Giladi and Dan "apEX" Madesclaire. The team’s adaptability and depth make it a strong contender for the title.
FaZe
The past Major winner has shown glimpses of its championship form, with its big-game experience and star power keeping it in the mix. FaZe thrives under pressure, making it a dangerous Playoff opponent.
Best bets for quarterfinal matches
The MongolZ (-103*) vs. MOUZ (-118*)
The MongolZ enters the Playoffs undefeated, showcasing incredible resilience and map control. MOUZ, on the other hand, is a team with a blend of experience and explosive young talent. This match will test The MongolZ's ability to handle the pressure of the Playoff stage. Given its current form, The MongolZ is highly likely to push this series to three maps.
Best bet: Handicap +1.5 on The MongolZ at -321*
Bet: The MongolZ vs. MOUZ odds
Spirit (-232*) vs. Liquid (+187*)
Team Spirit has been in fine form, with Danil "donk" Kryshkovets and Dmitriy "sh1ro" Sokolov delivering clutch performances. Liquid, however, has shown flashes of brilliance and thrives on the big stage. This will be a clash of Spirit’s structured approach against Liquid’s veteran experience. Spirit’s recent performances make it the favorite.
Best bet: Money Line on Spirit at -232*
G2 (-238*) vs. HEROIC (+191*)
The world's No. 1 team, G2, faces the tactical prowess of HEROIC in a matchup of heavyweights. While G2’s firepower is unparalleled, HEROIC has the ability to adapt mid-game, making this an intriguing encounter. G2’s consistent form makes it the safer choice, but HEROIC’s grit can push this series to three maps.
Best bet: Money Line on G2 at -238* and Total Maps Over 2.5 at +104*
Bet: G2 vs. HEROIC odds
Vitality (-342*) vs. FaZe (+266*)
This clash of giants features Vitality's tactical discipline and firepower against FaZe’s veteran experience. Both teams have Major-winning pedigrees, promising a nail-biting series. However, FaZe’s recent form has been inconsistent, while Vitality’s strong structure and current form give it the edge in this matchup.
Best bet: Money Line on Vitality at -342*
*Odds subject to change
