FURIA secured a victory against G2 in the first quarter-final of the Esports World Cup 2026 in Paris. Following the match, Mareks “YEKINDAR” Gaļinskis spoke about the team’s developing map pool, roster health issues, and his individual growth as a player.
Developing the map pool against G2
During the veto phase, FURIA opted to leave Ancient open, a map that previously served as their permanent ban. YEKINDAR explained that the recent removal of Overpass from the active competitive pool forced the team into a transitional phase. FURIA initially tested Ancient against Aurora and used the G2 series to evaluate their progress further in a high-stakes environment.
I feel like this was our next step on developing the map because G2 statistically is not so good on ancient,” YEKINDAR said. “It was a good test for us because slowly and surely we’re gaining confidence on the map and eventually we try to maybe even bring ancient into the pool.
The team is currently experimenting with their veto strategies and determining which map will become their new permanent ban. This experimentation is happening alongside physical hurdles, as multiple players are competing through illness in Paris.
In terms of the tournament, I feel like we have a lot of individual health problems here,” YEKINDAR added, mentioning that he and other teammates have been sick during the event.
Addressing the future without FalleN
With rumors surrounding Gabriel “FalleN” Toledo’s eventual retirement, YEKINDAR acknowledged the challenges the organization faces. The team understands the gravity of replacing a veteran leader and the outside interest generated by the situation.
Fallen is a very big figure in the team and when such a big figure in the team is retiring, then it’s very hard to find a one for one replacement for Fallen,” YEKINDAR stated.
He added that the team is still figuring out their future direction, maintaining that the players support each other’s career choices and view the active roster as a family.
Reaching a new individual peak
When asked about his personal peak performance, YEKINDAR pushed back against the idea that his best form was in 2021. While acknowledging his raw mechanical skill during that period, he believes his current iteration is superior due to a broader understanding of the game and his structural contributions to the team.
In terms of as a complete player, I think I’m now just a lot better than I was before and I value a lot more me as a whole rather than just soldier or just a rifle,” YEKINDAR explained.
He confirmed that he is actively trying to ease the burden on his teammates and contribute more to the overall calling and structure of the roster.
