lauNX relishes revenge over MOUZ after Cluj heartbreak as FUT reach EPL semi-finals

FUT continued their impressive run at the ESL Pro League Season 23 playoffs with a statement victory over MOUZ, eliminating one of the tournament favorites and securing a place in the semi-finals.

For Romanian rifler Laurențiu 'lauNX' Țârlea, the win carried extra emotional weight. The victory served as redemption following FUT’s earlier defeat to MOUZ at PGL Cluj-Napoca 2026 — an event that was especially meaningful to him as it took place in his home country.

Speaking after the match, lauNX admitted that the earlier loss had been particularly painful and that defeating MOUZ on the big stage felt like settling the score.

“I waited for this revenge from Cluj-Napoca, it was my home country and it hit me in the feelings. Now it’s equal,” he said after the series.

FUT continue their rapid rise

FUT have steadily developed into one of the most promising young teams on the scene, and their playoff run at ESL Pro League represents a major step forward. By defeating the highly ranked MOUZ roster, the team demonstrated both individual firepower and improving composure in high-pressure matches.

The victory was particularly significant given MOUZ’s reputation coming into the playoffs. The European squad was widely considered among the main contenders for the trophy, especially in a field where several other elite teams were absent or eliminated earlier in the event.

Despite losing a map during the series, FUT managed to maintain their composure and close out the decider, showing the kind of resilience that the team lacked during their previous meeting with MOUZ in Cluj.

According to lauNX, reviewing the earlier defeat helped the squad understand where they had fallen short.

He explained that while the previous series ended 2-0 in MOUZ’s favor, FUT had actually held advantages in many rounds but failed to convert them due to inexperience. Their improvement since then, he believes, reflects the team’s steady growth from tournament to tournament.

Mental resilience key to victory

One of the defining aspects of the series was FUT’s mentality. Even after dropping a map, the team remained calm and focused, recognizing that they had already proven they could compete with one of the world’s strongest rosters.

lauNX credited both the team’s mentality and a timely tactical pause from coach András “coolio” Fercsák for helping them regain control during difficult moments in the match.

He also highlighted the nature of the squad’s playstyle, describing the team as a group of young players who thrive in chaotic situations and are willing to take risks when the game becomes unpredictable.

Semi-final clash with NAVI awaits

With the victory over MOUZ secured, FUT moved on to the semi-finals where they are set to face Natus Vincere.

For lauNX, the upcoming match is another exciting challenge, though he noted that the motivation within the team is directed less at the organization itself and more at specific rivalries within the server.

Despite the magnitude of their upset victory, the Romanian player stressed that FUT are trying to keep their expectations in check. Rather than focusing on winning the entire tournament, the squad intends to approach the playoffs one match at a time while enjoying the experience of playing on the arena stage.

A dream moment for the young roster

Beyond the competitive significance of the win, the moment also carried personal meaning for lauNX. After a long period without playing in front of a live crowd, performing on stage and hearing fans cheering served as a reminder of why he continues to compete.

Reaching the playoffs — and now the semi-finals — already represents a milestone for the rising roster. According to lauNX, simply breaking through to arena matches before the upcoming Major was one of the team’s major goals for the season.

With momentum on their side and confidence growing, FUT now have the opportunity to continue their Cinderella run deeper into the ESL Pro League playoffs.