FURIA secured their spot in the IEM Rio 2024 semifinals after beating Natus Vincere (NAVI) in a thrilling series, two maps to zero, on Wednesday afternoon (9). Repeating the exciting atmosphere of the Major in Rio, the Brazilian team is now among the top four in the tournament.
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Strategic victory on the Nuke map
The first map of the series was Nuke, chosen by FURIA, where the Brazilians started promisingly on the terrorist side. The team opened the scoring with a pistol round victory, followed by a dominant run, reaching 6-3. However, NAVI managed to respond in the first full buy round and, by making good use of their defense, narrowed the gap on the scoreboard, closing the half with five points.
After switching sides, the balance between the teams continued. NAVI won the pistol round, but FURIA quickly responded with a victory in the force buy, regaining control of the game. The confrontation remained close until the score was tied at 10-10, at which point FURIA adapted to NAVI's executions on bombsite A. With precise defenses and excellent game reading, the Brazilian team secured a 13-10 victory, closing out the map solidly.
Absolute dominance on the Mirage map
The second map was Mirage, chosen by NAVI, but FURIA dominated the match. Starting on the counter-terrorist (CT) side, the Brazilian team showed an exceptional performance, alternating defensive tactics and controlling the map's spaces with precision. Even with NAVI managing to surprise in two eco rounds, FURIA maintained the lead, ending the first half with a score of 9-3.
In the second half, NAVI started well by winning the pistol round, but FURIA again demonstrated their strength by converting the force round immediately afterward. One of the most memorable moments was skullz's ace clutch, which extended the Brazilians' lead. FURIA reached a score of 12-4, and after winning the only full buy round by their opponents on the CT side, closed out the map 13-4, securing their passage to the semifinals.
FURIA stands out with strategy and precision at IEM Rio 2024
FURIA demonstrated not only individual skill but also excellent tactical awareness throughout the series against NAVI. Players like KSCERATO and FalleN were crucial in decisive moments. Meanwhile, skullz was fundamental in the clutch play that secured the victory in the forced round of the second round on Mirage. The team now moves confidently into the semifinals, maintaining their dream of bringing the title to Brazil.
