FalleN seeks third Cologne Major as FURIA reach playoffs

FURIA finished Stage 3 of the IEM Cologne Major with a 3-0 record, closing group play with a decisive win over BetBoom to reach the single-elimination playoffs at the LANXESS Arena in Cologne. The result keeps FURIA in contention for the title and marks the final LANXESS Arena appearance for 39-year-old Gabriel “FalleN” Toledo, who plans to retire at the end of the year.

FalleN said he expects an emotional return to the arena where he won Major titles 10 years ago and again the following year. “I’m definitely going to feel it more there,” he said, and added he is taking the run “day by day” to enjoy the experience.

The veteran described a recent improvement in form after a period of uneven results. He noted the squad worked through problems that followed last year’s success, accepted lessons from those issues and adjusted its approach to regain consistency.

On in-game leadership, FalleN described FURIA as having “a lot of freedom” in tactics and said teammate Mareks now provides significant calling input. FalleN also described moments when he needs to step forward and offer clearer direction, and the team has been balancing those roles in practice and matches.

Asked about his remaining time before retirement, he estimated roughly 185 days and confirmed Cologne will be his last appearance at the LANXESS Arena as a player. He described mixed feelings about ending his career and said he stayed this year because he enjoys playing with his teammates and believes the roster can continue in different roles after he retires.

FalleN expressed confidence in FURIA’s chances in the playoffs while acknowledging the depth of the field. He said the team can win in Cologne but that doing so will require favorable circumstances.

FURIA now prepare for the single-elimination playoff bracket at IEM Cologne. The team’s next opponents and the remaining schedule will determine how far they progress and whether FalleN’s final LANXESS Arena matches include a third Cologne trophy.