lauNX reflects on FUT’s improbable comeback over FaZe: “The hunger … because we are kids”

lauNX reflects on FUT’s improbable comeback over FaZe: “The hunger … because we are kids”

Romanian talent Laurențiu “lauNX” Țârlea offered an emotional and realistic take on his team’s stunning victory against FaZe in their opening match of CS Asia Championships 2025 (CAC). After trailing 3-9 in the first half, FUT turned the series around in the second half and clinched a 13-11 map win over one of the tournament’s favorites.

“This comeback has to do with the hunger we all have because we are kids,” he told HLTV. “We didn’t give up … there was no point in doubting ourselves.” 

Despite being seeded as one of the lower-ranked teams at the event, FUT entered with modest expectations—especially following a disappointing run at Birch Cup shortly before CAC. lauNX admitted their morale was tested early: the team struggled to find rhythm on T-sides and let pressure affect their decision-making and shotcalling.

“On the T-side we just could not find our pace … pressure kicked in, we were not doing what we were supposed to do.” 

Yet the resilience showed in the second half, especially on FUT’s CT side. lauNX credited coolio and a shared mentality for helping his squad stay in the fight.

“We had a very good mentality, we never gave up … with the help of coolio, we kinda knew there is always a hope, there’s always a chance.” 

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lauNX’s role and team dynamics

At just 20 years old, lauNX is one of the youngest players on the circuit. Yet in FUT, he represents one of the more experienced voices—ironically, given his age. His HLTV profile shows that he currently plays for FUT and maintains a 3-month map rating of 1.09. 

In the interview, he admitted the transition was strange:

“I think I am the one with the most experience … it's very weird to say.” 

He sees himself as more than just a rifler; he’s in a supportive role: hyping teammates, offering advice, and trying to build an internal culture of accountability he wished he’d had when he was younger.

“I’m trying to do what others didn’t do for me when I was at their age … it’s important to have someone like a big brother close to you.”

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What changed between Birch Cup and CAC

Just days prior to CAC, FUT had underwhelming results at Birch Cup. lauNX cited that gap as a catalyst:

“We practiced, we did anti-strat; we did everything we could … there was no point in doubting ourselves.” 

He framed CAC as a fresh start. With more preparation and deeper resolve, he believed FUT could shed the pressure and play more freely. After the dramatic win over FaZe, he expressed cautious optimism about their future in the tournament:

“If we win against FaZe, the confidence is there … everybody can beat everybody if you have good preparation and a good mindset.” 

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Significance of the result & outlook

• Statement win vs FaZe: Beating FaZe right off the bat boosts FUT’s morale and credibility. It shows they can hang with the top level.

• Momentum builder: This kind of comeback can galvanize a young roster. lauNX’s framing of “hunger” suggests they will lean into this as fuel.

• Narrative shift: For FUT, this win may change how commentators, opponents, and fans view their ceiling in CAC. They move from underdog to dangerous mid-tier contender.

• Role evolution: lauNX’s stated shift toward mentorship and mental leadership may define his next phase—not just as a fragging star but as a stabilizing voice.