soulfly: “Playing with XANTARES feels like having wallhack” — Aurora rookie shines after IEM Kraków playoff run

Aurora’s roster move is already paying off. After reaching the playoffs at IEM Kraków 2026, rookie rifler Caner “soulfly” Kesici delivered one of the most memorable quotes of the event — praising teammate İsmailcan “XANTARES” Dörtkardeş and explaining how quickly he’s adapting to tier-one Counter-Strike.

Below is a fully SEO-optimized recap that combines the original interview with all relevant roster, tournament, and player quotes connected to the story.

soulfly on XANTARES: “I’ve never seen something like this”

Aurora’s newest addition did not hold back when describing his experience playing alongside one of the most mechanically gifted riflers in Counter-Strike.

“Playing with XANTARES is kind of like playing with wallhack. I’ve never seen something like this before.”

The rookie highlighted both the aim and game sense of the Turkish star, explaining that the biggest difference compared to previous teams is how consistently XANTARES finds impact.

For soulfly, joining Aurora meant stepping into a very different role — one focused on responsibility rather than individual freedom.

“I’m not the star player anymore. I play more passive roles, and if I die it costs us really hard.”

Instead of resisting the change, the 21-year-old embraced it.

“I told our coach Fabre I will play whatever role the team needs, without asking any questions. I’m a soldier.”

The leadership factor: MAJ3R’s positivity easing the transition

Adapting to tier-one Counter-Strike is never easy, especially on LAN. But soulfly credits Engin “MAJ3R” Küpeli for making the transition smoother.

“MAJ3R is the most positive in-game leader I’ve ever played with. When he speaks, you feel comfortable and safe.”

This leadership dynamic has become a recurring theme across Aurora interviews and helps explain the team’s improved atmosphere in early 2026.

Why Aurora signed soulfly in the first place

Aurora made a bold winter roster move by benching jottAAA and signing soulfly, bringing in fresh firepower after a difficult late-2025 stretch.

The decision was not just about statistics — it was about motivation and roles.

woxic explains the “new blood” effect

AWPer Özgür “woxic” Eker provided key context in a separate interview:

“When you feel like it’s the end of the road, it’s always great to bring new blood into the team.”

He also confirmed that the previous lineup struggled with role overlap:

“There was a role problem. Now it feels like everyone is happier with what they’re doing.”

Despite praising soulfly’s potential, woxic also stressed the long-term perspective:

“He doesn’t have LAN experience yet, but I think he will be much better in the future.”

Immediate impact at IEM Kraków 2026

Aurora’s gamble already looks justified.

Aurora beat Falcons — soulfly tops the scoreboard

In one of the most important early matches of the event, Aurora defeated Falcons, with soulfly delivering a standout performance and finishing as the top fragger in the opener.

Aurora defeat MOUZ to reach playoffs

The Turkish squad then secured a playoff berth by beating MOUZ — with MAJ3R and soulfly highlighted among the key performers of the series.

This deep run gave extra weight to the team’s recent roster change and reinforced the idea that the new lineup is working.

The jottAAA domino effect

Aurora’s move also triggered another roster storyline:
Former player jottAAA joined Eternal Fire on loan, returning to a familiar organization after losing his Aurora spot.

This created a unique situation where both teams now move forward with new roles and fresh motivation.

Aurora’s current ranking and what comes next

Aurora currently sit inside the HLTV Top 15 (#11).

Their next major test is a match vs FURIA.

The IEM Kraków playoffs take place in the TAURON Arena from Feb 6–8.

If Aurora continue their momentum on stage, soulfly’s “no nerves” claim will face the ultimate test in front of a live arena crowd.

Why this story matters for the CS2 scene

This storyline connects several major Counter-Strike trends:

• A rising rookie entering tier-one CS

• A Turkish core rebuilding its identity

• Role restructuring and improved team chemistry

• Early LAN success validating a risky roster move

Most importantly, it shows how Aurora’s new lineup is beginning to click — with soulfly fully embracing the supportive role that allows stars like XANTARES to shine.

And if the rookie keeps delivering, the “wallhack teammate” quote may end up defining the start of Aurora’s 2026 season.