TeSeS credits karrigan after Falcons’ five-overtime win

Falcons reached the semifinals of PGL Astana 2026 on May 16 after a 2-1 victory over FURIA that extended into five overtimes across Nuke and Dust2. The match took place in Astana and lasted deep into extra time on two maps.

René “TeSeS” Madsen recorded a 1.25 series rating and credited Finn “karrigan” Andersen with keeping team energy high during tight rounds. TeSeS singled out karrigan’s presence as a factor in the team’s late-game composure.

On Nuke both teams produced several clutch moments. TeSeS said a T-side surge from m0NESY opened space that Falcons could exploit, and he highlighted some late-round multi-kills on CT that helped secure rounds. TeSeS added he had been in a short slump before the event and felt better after his performance on that map.

Dust2 also moved back and forth through regulation and multiple overtime rounds before Falcons closed the series. The match required extended stamina and focus from both sides.

TeSeS described how karrigan affects the squad during close games: “He brings this team atmosphere completely on another level, and I’m just really happy to have him here. Playing with him is such a joy in these close games because he kinda just takes you under his wing, and every time someone does something crazy, he’s hyping everyone up.” He said the coach’s energy helps steady the roster when matches run late.

TeSeS outlined his own role adjustments since karrigan joined. He said he is playing B on Dust2 for the first time and has moved toward A on Mirage, calling the changes a learning curve. He noted that NiKo has been assigned as the team’s primary closer in mid-round situations.

With FURIA eliminated, Falcons will face magic in Saturday’s semifinal. TeSeS said Falcons are favorites on paper but they will not underestimate their opponents. He said the immediate focus is rest and preparation and joked he hoped the next match would not run “an hour past midnight.”

TeSeS also described the Astana crowd as “crazy” and called the series one of the most fun games he has played with the current roster. He noted that Falcons have now beaten FURIA four times in a row, and that their meetings remain closely contested.