MOUZ and FUT met in the 1-2 bracket of the IEM Cologne Major Stage 3, where the losing team would face elimination. FUT secured a 2-1 victory to advance in the tournament, while MOUZ are now heading home.
MOUZ entered the matchup attempting to make the best of a challenging roster situation. Following a difficult start to 2026, the organization opted to bench Ludvig “Brollan” Brolin and Jimi “Jimpphat” Salo. Due to the roster lock rules for the Major, Brollan returned as a temporary stand-in, and Dorian “xertioN” Berman took over the in-game leadership duties.
FUT arrived in Cologne with high expectations after winning PGL Bucharest earlier in the year. The roster delivered a flawless 3-0 record in Stage 2. The level of competition increased in Stage 3, pushing them to a 0-2 deficit before they managed to eliminate B8. With this victory against MOUZ, FUT now require two more wins to secure a spot in the playoffs.
FUT take early control on Ancient
The series began on Ancient. FUT established a strong offensive presence early in the game. In-game leader Aulon “Krabeni” Fazlija directed an effective T side that resulted in eight rounds before halftime. MOUZ fought back in the second half and came close to taking the lead. Several late mistakes from MOUZ ultimately gave FUT the opportunity to close out the map.
MOUZ equalize the series on Nuke
MOUZ selected Nuke for the second map. The statistics favored MOUZ, as FUT entered the match with a five-game losing streak on the map. The first half remained close, but FUT struggled to consistently break through the MOUZ defense as the game progressed. MOUZ maintained their composure and secured a comfortable 13-10 victory to force a deciding third map.
FUT secure the decider on Mirage
The final map was Mirage. Both teams kept the scoreline tight in the early rounds, leaving little room for error. FUT eventually found a breakthrough late in the first half, building an 8-4 lead following a solid defensive performance. FUT carried that momentum into the second half. They systematically dismantled the MOUZ gameplan and secured a 13-7 win to claim the series. FUT keep their tournament run intact, while MOUZ exit the Major.
