Can S1mple and FaZe Clan actually win Austin Major 2025

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive

7 Jun

Ganesh Jadhav

While ZywOo and Vitality’s dominance heading into the Austin Major 2025 is unmatched, the biggest storyline of the ongoing Counter-Strike 2 fiesta is the return of the GOAT. S1mple has joined one of the most iconic organizations in CS esports—FaZe Clan.

FaZe’s Tumultuous 2025

FaZe dominated the scene during Counter-Strike’s transition from CS:GO to CS2, winning three consecutive trophies and looking poised to reclaim their place as the world’s best.

But Twistzz’s departure changed everything. The trophy-lifting roster became a shadow of its former self, constantly playing catch-up to the top teams. Despite the addition of frozen, FaZe’s last victory came at IEM Chengdu in April 2024—and they haven’t lifted another trophy since.

Things worsened after ropz left the team at the start of 2024. FaZe struggled to even reach podium finishes (except CS2 Majors). Broky, in particular, had a rough 2025, and with the Major fast approaching, the team needed a shake-up.

A S1mple Solution

To replace Broky, FaZe threw a hail mary and brought in the most unexpected substitute for the Austin Major 2025. On May 5, they announced the signing of s1mple, with IEM Dallas 2025 marking his debut for the squad.

Their game against Team Liquid became the most-watched series of the tournament, even surpassing the MOUZ vs. Team Vitality grand final.

However, with rain absent from the lineup, FaZe’s overall performance left much to be desired. The team looked disjointed as they were eliminated by Heroic before reaching the playoffs.

The silver lining? Individual brilliance—especially from s1mple. While not quite at his peak, his AWPing found crucial frags and he looked stable enough to anchor his role.

Now, with rain back in the lineup and one of the longest bootcamps in FaZe history under their belt, the team enters the Major with renewed chemistry. With s1mple finally playing alongside rain and karrigan, the vibes are strong—but can this mix of talent work tactically?

Will the Experiment Work?

S1mple is a big-game player, and if his recent stream form is anything to go by, he’s confident and hungry. After nearly two years away, he’s got something to prove—and he wants to go head-to-head with the likes of ZywOo and m0NESY.

But he’s just one piece of the FaZe puzzle.

Since EliGE replaced ropz, FaZe has faced persistent role and positional issues—especially on their CT sides. These disconnects have led to shaky starts and tough comebacks.

Heading into the Major, FaZe must have addressed these issues—especially the coordination on defense. With s1mple’s ability to flex across roles, they now have a world-class utility belt to plug holes.

Karrigan remains one of the best in-game leaders on offense and is a master at maximizing his roster. If FaZe can find early momentum, they’ll be serious contenders for the title.

Ironically, FaZe’s best results since 2024 have been two second-place finishes at the Majors. When it’s time for the big stage, FaZe always shows up.

Can FaZe Clan Defeat Team Vitality?

The biggest contender—and the best team in the world right now—is Team Vitality. Ropz’s new squad has dominated every tournament in 2025 and is the clear favorite to lift the Austin Major trophy.

FaZe might not have the same level of role synergy as Vitality, but they have one key advantage: flexibility and veteran experience. With karrigan’s experienced calling against structured giants like prime-Astralis, FaZe can find the cracks in even the most well-oiled machine.

On paper, FaZe has the firepower to challenge anyone. But Vitality remains the final boss at the Austin Major 2025.

FaZe Clan’s Major Journey Starts Tonight

FaZe Clan kicks off their Austin Major 2025 run tonight, June 7 at 09:30 CDT, against Team Heroic. In their last meeting, Heroic knocked FaZe out of IEM Dallas 2025.

This game will set the tone for FaZe’s Major campaign.

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Featured Image Credits: FaZe Clan