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The MongolZ Surpass Vitality to Claim 1st Place in VRS Ranking
The MongolZ continue to make history in Counter-Strike 2. Earlier today, they took down TYLOO at the Fissure Playground #2. With the win, they overtake Team Vitality to claim the number one spot in the VRS rankings.
With a strong 2-1 standing in the Swiss Stage and a growing list of accolades, The MongolZ are now the highest-ranked team globally.
bLitz’s Humble Reaction
In-game leader Garidmagnai "bLitz" Byambasuren shared a humble response to their new ranking on social media. He stated,
"Its honorable to be ranked as #1 but for me we aren't there yet. Hoping to achieve the real #1 soon. Thanks everyone but It's good to see this number tho."
His words reflect both pride in the accomplishment and an acknowledgment that the journey toward lasting dominance is far from complete.
Vitality’s Decline After Major Triumph
For much of 2025, Team Vitality defined the CS2 competitive scene. Their crowning moment came at the BLAST.tv Austin Major, where they lifted the trophy in convincing fashion. However, after achieving the ultimate prize, their results have faltered.
A disappointing 3rd-4th place finish at both IEM Cologne and BLAST Bounty Fall was followed by another 4th place at the Esports World Cup. Most recently, they placed 2nd at BLAST Open Fall, losing to a G2 roster patched together with hopes and duct tape. These slip-ups have sparked questions about whether the French organization has grown complacent since their Major success.
MongolZ’s Relentless Grind
In contrast to Vitality’s stumbles, The MongolZ have pushed forward relentlessly. Their journey began with a breakthrough moment in 2024 when they became the first Asian team to reach the Major playoffs. Building on that historic run, they consistently placed in the top four at most tournaments throughout 2025.
The highlight of their year came at the BLAST.tv Austin Major where they pushed all the way to the Grand Final, only to fall short against Vitality. Rather than a setback, this defeat became motivation. At the Esports World Cup 2025 in Riyadh, The MongolZ finally achieved international glory by lifting their first major trophy.
From Underdogs to True Contenders
The MongolZ may not yet have bested Vitality on a main stage, but their consistent results speak volumes. They now hold the #1 ranking on the VRS leaderboard, a symbolic yet powerful achievement over the reigning Major champions. While a five-point lead may not guarantee long-term dominance, it solidifies The MongolZ as more than just a Cinderella story. They are now regarded as legitimate contenders and one of the most feared squads on the circuit.
As bLitz himself noted, the job is not yet done. However, the MongolZ's rise from underdogs to top-ranked favorites is a reminder that professional Counter-Strike is no longer dictated only by traditional regions. With their discipline, consistency, and hunger, The MongolZ have proved that their current ranking is well-deserved.
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Featured Image Source: Adela Sznajder/BLAST
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