FURIA End 9z’s Cologne Run and Reach the Major Semis, Review

FURIA are into the semi-finals of the IEM Cologne Major 2026 after surviving a dangerous quarter-final against 9z. The Brazilian side did not have a clean start, but they showed exactly what a playoff team needs: recovery, composure and the ability to close when the series gets uncomfortable.

9z opened the match with real authority on Dust2, winning 13 - 8 and proving again why their Cologne run had become one of the tournament’s best stories. After stunning Vitality earlier in Stage 3 and reaching the playoffs, the South American squad were no longer just a surprise name - they were a serious threat.

But FURIA answered. Mirage became the turning point, with yuurih producing key clutch moments and FURIA slowly taking control after a rough early stretch. The 13 - 9 win tied the series and shifted the pressure back onto 9z.

On Overpass, FURIA finally looked like the stronger, more experienced side. Despite dropping the pistol and conversion, they built a dominant CT half and closed the decider 13 - 6. That sealed a 2 - 1 victory and ended 9z’s impressive Cologne campaign.

For FURIA, this result carries extra weight. After quarter-final exits at the Austin and Budapest Majors, FalleN’s lineup finally broke through the top-eight barrier. Now, with Aurora waiting in the semi-final, FURIA are not just chasing another playoff win - they are one series away from a Major grand final.

9z leave Cologne with respect. FURIA move forward with momentum.