The group stage of IEM Melbourne 2025 has concluded, and the tournament now enters its decisive phase — the playoffs. However, even before the elimination matches begin, the CS world is buzzing not only about the results but also about those who truly impressed. The spotlight is on ten players whose individual performances were the driving force behind victories, comebacks, and genuine surprises.

10. Nikola "NiKo" Kovač — 6.5

The player from Falcons rounds out the top ten in individual statistics. In the match against NAVI, NiKo showcased his class, especially in tandem with m0NESY. In this encounter, he proved that he can be the backbone when it is most needed.

9. Ilya "m0NESY" Osipov — 6.6

The Falcons sniper was one of the most consistent players on his team: in two out of three matches, he was the top-rated player and earned MVP honors. Thanks to his play, Falcons advanced through the upper bracket, although they lost in the group final and will now start from the quarterfinals. His contribution was key to the team's successful start.

8. Ayush "mzinho" Batbold — 6.6

The player from The Mongolz became one of the tournament's revelations. His performance in the upper bracket semifinal against FaZe was particularly impressive, where mzinho proved to be a key player. His confident play propelled the team into the playoffs, and he secured his place among the top ten players of the stage.

7. Julian "regali" Hărgeau — 6.9

Even though FlyQuest did not make it to the playoffs, regali was a real fragging machine. His performances were consistent, regularly earning MVP or EVP titles, and he deservedly made it onto the list of the best.

6. Mathieu "ZywOo" Herbaut — 6.9

The French sniper from Vitality once again shows why he is considered one of the best in the world. The match against Falcons, ending in a 2:0 victory, was his standout moment. It was ZywOo who was the key to this victory — cool, precise, and consistently effective.

5. Lotan "Spinx" Giladi — 6.9

The player from MOUZ delivered a stellar performance against Liquid, ensuring a confident 2:0 victory. His shooting, timing, and confidence were decisive factors in advancing the team further in the bracket.

4. Fredrik "REZ" Sterner — 7.0

REZ from GamerLegion showed consistency and leadership throughout the group stage. In three out of four matches, he earned MVP or EVP. His performance in the lower bracket final against FaZe was especially crucial, helping the team reach the playoffs.

3. Robin "ropz" Kool — 7.1

The player from Vitality was incredibly consistent — ropz was a force to be reckoned with at any moment. His key match was against FlyQuest in the quarterfinals, where he dominated the map and helped the team progress further.

2. Shahar "flameZ" Shushan — 7.1

The second Vitality player who had an outstanding group stage. flameZ was the MVP of the match against Liquid, where his aggression and precise shooting were critical. His performance was not only effective but also spectacular — he became a symbol of Vitality's confidence at this stage.

1. Michael "Grim" Wince — 7.2

The individual leader of the group stage. Despite Complexity not reaching the playoffs, Grim became MVP or EVP three times, showing incredible form. His contribution in each match was immense — he clutched rounds, dominated, and was a game-changer.

IEM Melbourne 2025 takes place from April 21 to 27. The entire tournament is held in Melbourne, Australia, at the Rod Laver Arena. Participants compete for a prize pool of $300,000. You can follow the results and progress of the tournament via this link.