MOUZ Dominates FURIA in IEM Rio 2024 Semi-Final

In the second semi-final of IEM Rio 2024, MOUZ delivered a crushing 2-0 defeat to home favorites FURIA, securing their place in the grand final against Natus Vincere (NAVI). This commanding performance reversed their earlier 2-1 loss to FURIA in the Group A upper bracket and silenced the fervent Brazilian crowd at the Farmasi Arena.

FURIA’s Strong Run Ends

For FURIA, this semi-final exit represents one of their best recent performances. The Brazilian squad had not reached this stage in a major event since the 2022 Rio Major, but their victories over top-tier teams like FaZe and Natus Vincere earlier in the tournament showed their capability to compete at the highest level.

Despite the loss, FURIA’s resurgence is a testament to Gabriel "FalleN" Toledo’s leadership, as they continue to rebuild and solidify their status as a competitive force in Counter-Strike.

Map 1: Nuke
FURIA chose Nuke, but MOUZ quickly took control after a successful force-buy following FURIA’s opening pistol round. FURIA managed only two rounds in the first half and, despite winning the second pistol round, could not convert it into further success. MOUZ sealed the map without much resistance.

Map 2: Mirage
On MOUZ’s pick of Mirage, FURIA’s defense faltered, as they only managed three rounds on the CT-side. MOUZ’s relentless aggression led to a swift 13-3 finish, closing out the series and securing their spot in the final.

MOUZ’s Road to the Final

MOUZ has struggled to reach grand finals in recent months, but their performance at IEM Rio 2024 marks a return to form. After beating teams like Complexity and Vitality, they now face NAVI in the grand final, confident in their ability to win the trophy.

MOUZ now prepares for a best-of-five (BO5) grand final against Natus Vincere, a team known for their experience and resilience.

The grand final promises to be an exciting showdown between two top-tier teams, with MOUZ aiming to cap off their tournament run with a championship win.