Mouz take down team vitality

The stage was set in Cologne as Team Vitality and MOUZ prepared to clash in the Counter-Strike 2 semi-finals of IEM 2025. Vitality entered the match on a wave of momentum, having dominated the Group Stage without a single loss, while MOUZ had narrowly prevailed in a tense quarterfinal against FURIA.

Throughout the season, every encounter between these two teams had ended in Vitality's favor, making the semi-final a crucial opportunity for MOUZ to turn the tide. With a grand final appearance at stake, anticipation was high as both squads looked to solidify their place among the elite at Intel Extreme Masters Cologne.

MOUZ ends Vitality’s unbeaten run at Cologne

The semifinal clash between MOUZ and Team Vitality at IEM Cologne 2025 saw expectations turned on their head as MOUZ broke a long streak of losses against their rivals. Entering the matchup, Vitality was widely viewed as the favorite, having dominated the CS2 scene in 2025 and holding an impressive consecutive-series win record on LAN. MOUZ, however, displayed clear resilience and tactical depth throughout both maps.

On the opening map, Mirage, Team Vitality appeared to be in control with a strong Counter-Terrorist showing in the first half, taking an 8-4 lead. The momentum shifted dramatically after the sides switched, as MOUZ executed calculated strategies and clutched critical rounds on their own CT side. Their comeback resulted in a 13-9 victory, signaling the end of Vitality’s grip on the series.

Transitioning to Train for the second map, MOUZ maintained their composure even as the match grew tense toward the finish. With both teams trading rounds and showing strong individual play, MOUZ ultimately closed out the map with a 13-8 scoreline, confirming their place in the grand final. Notably, it was MOUZ’s first series victory over Vitality since IEM Rio 2024, marking a significant breakthrough in their rivalry.

Map Results Table

This unexpected win also ensured that Vitality would miss out on a grand final appearance for the first time in several major tournaments. MOUZ now advance to face Team Spirit as they aim for the IEM Cologne trophy.