MOUZ vs The MongolZ: A Semifinal Showdown at IEM Dallas 2025

23 May

Kaustavmani Choudhury

With the first quarterfinal of IEM Dallas 2025 wrapped up, two of the hottest teams in the tournament are now set to face off in the semifinals. The MongolZ and MOUZ have both delivered exceptional performances throughout the event, and their clash in Dallas promises to be one of the most exciting matchups yet.

The MongolZ: The Eastern Underdogs on Fire

The MongolZ have quickly turned heads with their dynamic and fearless playstyle. After a strong run in the group stage and a clinical performance in the quarterfinals, they've only dropped a single series against tournament favorites, Team Vitality. Their 2-0 wins across the board show a level of map versatility that few expected coming into the event.

Whether it’s Mirage, Inferno, Anubis, or Dust2, The MongolZ have shown a surprising maturity and depth in their map pool. Their trio of stars - Azbayar "Senzu" Munkhbold, Garidmagnai "bLitz" Byambasuren, and Ayush "mzinho" Batbold - have all taken turns leading the fragging charts, but it’s been Usukhbayar "910" Banzragch who’s consistently kept the team in contention with ice-cold clutches and high-impact plays. If 910 maintains this form, The MongolZ have a real shot at making it all the way.

MOUZ: A Return to Form

MOUZ, on the other hand, have looked like a team reborn. Breezing through BC.Game, Team Liquid, and Team Falcons, the German organization earned themselves a direct spot in the semifinals. Their current form is reminiscent of their early-2025 peak, and the synergy is firing on all cylinders.

Ádám "torzsi" Torzsás is having what could be the best tournament of his career so far. With a blend of mechanical excellence and sharp decision-making, he's been the tip of the spear for MOUZ. That said, it's been a true team effort, with each player stepping up when needed. Their balanced teamplay and experience on big stages may be the deciding factors as they look to push past The MongolZ.

Map Veto:

With Anubis and Train as the permanent bans, the map veto could lean toward an Inferno pick for MOUZ, while The MongolZ are likely to respond with Mirage or a confident Inferno of their own.

In the second wave, MOUZ might eliminate Inferno if The MongolZ don’t pick it, while the latter will likely ban out Nuke - one of MOUZ’s strongest maps.

This leaves Dust2 as the potential decider, a battleground where both teams have found success. If the veto unfolds this way, fans can expect an explosive and unpredictable final map.

Prediction:

There’s no denying the momentum that The MongolZ carry into this matchup. They’ve defied expectations and proven they belong on the big stage. But MOUZ, with their experience and structure, have the edge when it comes to handling high-pressure scenarios.

If both teams play to their strengths, we’re in for a banger of a series. Still, given their consistency and pedigree, the prediction leans towards MOUZ taking the series 2-1 and moving one step closer to the trophy.

Predicted Winner: MOUZ 2-1 The MongolZ

As the stage is set for the first semifinal at IEM Dallas 2025, all eyes will be on MOUZ and The MongolZ to deliver a clash worthy of the spotlight. One step from the grand final, everything is on the line.

For the latest CS2 news and guides, follow Strafe Esports. Also, check out our X account for real-time content and coverage.

Featured Image Credits: ESL