Event Overview of HOTU Upsets FURIA
On September 28, 2025, in ESL Pro League Season 22 Stage 1 (Swiss Round 1), HOTU pulled off a surprising performance, defeating the favored FURIA 2–0 (Overpass 13–8; Dust II 13–9). This result not only disrupted the outside world’s expectations for FURIA, but also gave HOTU a strong start in this tournament.
FURIA had just won the FISSURE Playground 2 (FPG2) championship, and its overall strength was highly anticipated.However, after arriving in Sweden, it suffered a setback in its first match, which directly affected its ranking and performance in the Swiss stage.
According to the VRS Global Ranking, FURIA was considered a higher threat before the start of the tournament, while HOTU was considered a potential dark horse. After this match, FURIA’s ranking was affected by the decline in performance.
Map Trends and Data Analysis
Map Selection and Rhythm Flow
Map 1 Overpass: HOTU won 13–8. FURIA struggled slightly in map selection and failed to establish a stable rhythm on the defensive end.
Map 2 Dust II: HOTU won another game 13–9. Although both teams fluctuated in the transition between offense and defense, HOTU was more mature in endgame handling and rhythm control.
FURIA was unable to drag the team into the third map Nuke and was eventually eliminated with a score of 0–2.
Key Player Performance
On the FURIA side, KSCERATO, despite receiving the highest rating of the team (approximately 1.53 series rating), was unable to save the situation.
Detailed Kill-Death-Assist (K/D/A) statistics:
KSCERATO: 36 / 25 / 17 (+11)
molodoy: 33 / 32 / 6 (+1)
YEKINDAR: 29 / 35 / 13 (−6)
These data show that although FURIA has some individual flashes, their overall tempo control, teamwork, and endgame handling are all inferior to their opponents.
On the other hand, HOTU’s overall performance was more balanced. Although they did not have any extremely eye-catching individual results, they steadily suppressed the opponent’s tempo. This shows that their training system and tactical execution showed advantages in the key stages of the game.
Economic and Tactical Trends
From the perspective of round economy, HOTU is better at controlling resources, reducing mistakes, and handling the transition between offense and defense properly in key rounds. FURIA was too impatient in their counterattacks, missing several crucial exchange opportunities. Map tempo shifts and mid-game control were key factors in HOTU’s victory.
Impact and Future Outlook
Impact on FURIA and Reflections
As the pre-tournament favorite, FURIA’s early defeat dealt a heavy blow to both their advancement and confidence in the Swiss round. Even if they return to the competition, they will likely face significant pressure. The coaching staff and core players must immediately adjust their opening form, tempo control, and lane support.
FURIA, in addition, needs to reduce volatility in the remaining rounds and ensure they are not suppressed in the base rounds to avoid being defeated by a dark horse opponent again.
The Significance of HOTU’s Upset and the Signals of the Tournament
For HOTU, a relatively weak team in the rankings, this victory has multiple implications:
1. Confidence Boost: A 2-0 victory over a strong opponent significantly boosted team morale;
2. Ranking and Points Gain: A tangible gain in VRS points and tournament points, altering their competitive landscape in the Swiss Round;
3. Change in Opponent Tactical Vigilance: Future opponents facing HOTU will likely prioritize their playstyle and tempo, increasing the complexity of their strategies;
4. Shift from “Upset” to “Powerful” Output: If they can maintain consistent performance, HOTU has a chance to transform from an underrated team into a true “dark horse” contender.
However, their upcoming opponents may be even more skilled, and HOTU will need to remain calm, minimize mistakes, and further hone their playstyle diversity and map depth.
This upset victory may signal further uncertainty in the structure of this EPL Season 22. A shaky start could expose some traditionally strong teams to potential sniping by lower-tier teams. For mid-tier and lower-tier teams, this victory serves as a testament to the fact that with solid execution and a consistent rhythm, they too have a chance to challenge the top teams. Overall, this tournament may see more unexpected outcomes.
Conclusion
In this FURIA vs HOTU match:
HOTU defeated FURIA with 2–0 (13–8, 13–9), achieving an upset;
Although FURIA has high-level players such as KSCERATO, it is inferior to its opponent in overall rhythm, team defense, and endgame handling;
HOTU’s victory is of far-reaching significance. It is not only a boost in points and confidence, but may also change the competitive landscape of this EPL S22.
The future highlights include: whether FURIA can adjust and stabilize, whether HOTU can continue its momentum, and how other strong teams will deal with this “upset threat”. For players and fans who follow the CS2 competitive landscape, this match will undoubtedly become one of the classic nodes of this ESL Pro League.