Everything in Cologne built up to this moment: MOUZ, one of the most consistent teams of the year, faced off against the ambitious FURIA in the IEM Cologne 2025 quarter-final. The series was the perfect example of why CS2 remains one of the most emotional esports — three maps, dozens of clutches, aggression, discipline, and nerves stretched to the limit. After a grueling battle, it was MOUZ who raised their hands — a 2–1 victory and a ticket to the semi-finals.
Previous meeting: memories of ESL Pro League Season 21
This wasn’t just another match. Only a few weeks ago, MOUZ and FURIA met at ESL Pro League Season 21. Back then, MOUZ secured a 2–1 win, and many believed they had “figured out” the Brazilian style of play.
Now, history repeated itself — but with a new layer of drama. FURIA tried to prove they had learned their lessons and could outplay their opponent. And while they came closer to revenge this time, MOUZ once again found the path to victory.
Match flow
Train – a draining start (19:16 MOUZ)
The series kicked off on FURIA’s pick, Train, and the Brazilians wanted to surprise their opponents. They did force MOUZ to sweat: molody opened the match with fearless confidence, winning early duels; YEKINDAR constantly pressured the flanks; and FalleN read the game like an open book.
But in overtime, torzsi stepped up — his AWP made the difference. Two crucial clutches and a series of bold peaks secured a hard-fought 19:16 for MOUZ. They stole FURIA’s pick, but it came at a cost.
Mirage – FURIA strike back (13:10)
FURIA weren’t going down quietly. FalleN orchestrated clean calls, molody and KSCERATO ripped open MOUZ’s defense with daring site hits, and YEKINDAR punished every mistimed rotation.
Mirage showcased why FURIA are feared on their map picks. The Brazilians closed it out 13:10, leveling the series and proving they had a plan for a comeback.
Inferno – a cold-blooded finish (13:11 MOUZ)
The decider came down to nerve and discipline. FURIA won the first half 7:5 — molody’s hot streak continued, and FalleN conducted his team like a maestro. It looked like they might push MOUZ over the edge.
But after the side switch, Spinx and torzsi switched into semi-final mode. They took over key rounds, pulled off two massive 1v2 clutches, and turned the game on its head. The map ended 13:11 — and with it, MOUZ celebrated a hard-earned victory.
Player stats for the match
MOUZ: cold-blooded march to the semi-final
MOUZ once again proved that even when the script doesn’t go their way, they remain a team that never panics — they just grind out wins.
- torzsi was the cornerstone of this series — his AWP didn’t just collect kills; it applied relentless pressure on FURIA. His clutches on Train and Inferno were game-breakers, shifting the momentum and crushing the Brazilians’ confidence.
- Spinx brought stability, making smart mid-round decisions that held the team together.
- Brollan and jimmphat might not have topped the scoreboard, but their “dirty work” — winning scrappy duels, locking down sites, and creating space — gave the stars room to shine.
This was classic MOUZ: cold calculation, team discipline, and the right decisions in the moments that mattered most.
FURIA: a valiant exit
Brazil’s FURIA leave Cologne — but with their heads held high.
- molody once again emerged as the standout leader — his aggression on Train and calm composure on Mirage kept the series competitive.
- YEKINDAR and KSCERATO constantly created pressure, probing MOUZ’s defenses and forcing reactions, while FalleN used his vast experience to keep the team structured and hopeful.
But this time, it just wasn’t enough: MOUZ’s structure and discipline shut down the chaotic aggression FURIA thrives on.
Player of the Match – Danil “molody” Golubenko
Even in defeat, the spotlight belonged to Danil “molody” Golubenko.
His 68–45 K/D, 1.21 rating, and 79.3% KAST show a player who carried more than his share. On Train, molody’s fearless entries set the tone for FURIA, and on Mirage, his opening kills and clutches kept his team alive far longer than expected.
Winning 83% of the fan vote for MVP, molody proved he’s more than just a rising talent — he’s already a cornerstone of this team and one of the brightest stars in Brazilian CS2.
What’s next?
MOUZ advance to the IEM Cologne 2025 semi-finals, looking every bit like a team ready to fight for the trophy. Their mix of composure, clutch ability, and tactical discipline makes them one of the most dangerous squads left in the tournament.
FURIA, meanwhile, end their run here — but not in disgrace. This was a performance full of heart and ambition, and it sends a clear message: the Brazilians will be back, stronger, hungrier, and ready for redemption.
