In what proved to be convincing fashion, Na’Vi defeated newcomers to the scene BIG 3-1. While BIG put in some…big performances they just could not stand against the firepower of the Ukrainian super-team. With s1mple and electronic consistently winning rounds, Na’Vi got ahead and were able to stay there.
Huge credit must go to BIG who have only been together for a month. They got themselves to the final and lost to the best team in the world. There is no shame at all in that and at times they put Na’Vi under pressure which in itself is a huge accomplishment.
The storyline going into the tournament was whether anyone could stop the tactical dominance of Astralis. In their semi-final however, it was Na’Vi that was able to stamp their authority on the game. Na’Vi’s aggressive playstyle with numerous force-buys kept Astralis from being able to build their economy and strangle out their opponents. Unable to play their game, they looked vulnerable, and cracked.
The evolution of Na’Vi is great for CSGO, making the contest for best team in the world a three-horse race. Na’Vi have clearly worked hard on strengthening their weaknesses, there are far fewer unforced errors in their game meaning opponents don’t get free rounds against them. Furthermore they are now a team. Na’Vi have been known for having the best player in the world but little else. They had to become more than a 1-threat team, and with electronic and Zeus both putting in huge performances in the tournament, they have done so.
The moment of the tournament for me was s1mple getting the enthusiastic German crowd to chant for Smooya, the young British talent. In the moment of his greatest win he decides to applaud the effort of a newcomer to the scene. That spectacle of showmanship was fantastic to see.
The narrative now, with three powerful teams, is who can be the most consistent team through the rest of the year. Bring on the Majors!
CodexCaster's Contribution 