The world of Counter-Strike 2 is a relentless arena, where every match is a test and every tournament a stepping stone. For teams like Natus Vincere (NAVI), consistently at the pinnacle of esports, maintaining momentum and confidence is paramount. Recently, Drin `Makazze` Shaqiri, a key player for NAVI`s CS2 roster, offered a candid insight into their recent trajectory, highlighting how even a victory at a lower-tier event can be instrumental in shaping a team`s championship aspirations.
NAVI`s journey through the competitive landscape saw them lifting the trophy at the StarLadder StarSeries Fall 2025. While some might dismiss a win outside the absolute top echelon, Makazze underscored its strategic importance.
“It wasn`t a top-level tournament, so to speak, but it definitely gave us confidence. Any win is a win,” he remarked.
This pragmatic view reveals a deeper understanding of competitive psychology: sometimes, the sheer act of winning, regardless of the opponent`s rank, can be the most potent morale booster.
The team approached StarLadder StarSeries Fall 2025 with a clear objective beyond just the prize money: to use it as an advanced training ground. “We went there to practice, and I think the practice went well,” Makazze explained. This innovative approach transformed a regular tournament into a high-stakes scrimmage, allowing NAVI to fine-tune strategies, test new setups, and forge stronger team cohesion under live pressure – a far more effective method than traditional scrims alone. The irony, perhaps, is that their “practice” was so effective it culminated in a trophy.
This calculated confidence injection proved timely, as NAVI immediately transitioned into the demanding ESL Pro League Season 22. Kicking off their campaign with a solid victory against Aurora Gaming, the initial signs were promising. The meticulously honed strategies and boosted morale from StarLadder seemed to be paying dividends.
However, the path through top-tier esports is rarely straightforward. In their subsequent encounter, NAVI faced a formidable challenge, ultimately falling to Team Falcons. This loss, while a setback, serves as a crucial reality check in a season that promises to be packed with high-octane competition. It reminds everyone that even the most prepared teams must adapt and learn from every match.
Looking ahead, Natus Vincere is poised for their next challenge against Team 3DMAX. This upcoming match, scheduled for October 6th, will be another critical juncture in their ESL Pro League Season 22 journey. For Makazze and the rest of NAVI, every game is an opportunity to showcase their refined skills and reinforce the confidence gained from their earlier “practice” victory. Their narrative is one of continuous improvement, strategic foresight, and an unwavering drive to conquer the elite stages of CS2.
