Kirill “Magnojez” Rodnov reflected on the first BETBOOM victory over FURIA in six meetings during 2026, highlighting improved communication and the team’s growing confidence. Speaking in an interview with HLTV after the IEM Beijing 2026 quarterfinals, the Russian rifler also praised coach Artem “Fierce” Ivanov for improving the structure of the team and helping players perform more consistently.
BETBOOM defeated FURIA 2:1 after winning the deciding Nuke 16:14 in overtime, ending a five-match losing streak against the Brazilian team and securing a place in the semifinals.
Magnojez celebrates first victory over FURIA
BETBOOM had previously lost five consecutive series against FURIA, including the Grand Final of Thunderpick World Championship 2026 and the quarterfinals of PGL Masters Bucharest 2026. However, the team finally managed to reverse the trend in Beijing.
Magnojez joked about the repeated meetings and admitted that playing against FURIA had always been an enjoyable challenge because of the level of their opponents.
No one beats BETBOOM six times.
The Russian rifler explained that BETBOOM entered the match with strong preparation, particularly on Ancient, where they secured a 13:5 victory. However, mistakes during several rounds on Dust2 allowed FURIA to recover and force a deciding map.
On Nuke, BETBOOM maintained control for much of the game but struggled to close the series. Despite several mistakes and lost rounds against weaker weapons, the team eventually secured a 16:14 overtime victory.
Better communication helped BETBOOM overcome FURIA
According to Magnojez, the main difference compared with previous meetings was the level of communication and individual performance. He believes BETBOOM were more focused throughout the series and managed to win several unfavorable situations.
The rifler also suggested that fatigue may have affected FURIA after their recent tournament schedule, although he primarily credited the improvement within his own team.
Magnojez emphasized that growing confidence is not only about individual aim. He believes better coordination, communication and teamwork have allowed BETBOOM to make more effective decisions during matches.
Fierce helps BETBOOM improve their structure
Magnojez also praised the work of coach Artem “Fierce” Ivanov, explaining that the team have developed a more structured approach since his arrival.
I think before he came, we had much less structure than right now.
According to Magnojez, Fierce works closely with Kirill “Boombl4” Mikhailov to ensure that all five players understand their responsibilities and can perform effectively within the system. The team also regularly discuss individual comfort, roles and performances.
The rifler highlighted the improvement of Aleksandr “zorte” Zagodyrenko, who finished the FURIA series with 62 kills, 36 deaths and a 1.35 Rating 3.0. Magnojez believes the AWPer has regained confidence and is now capable of delivering performances comparable to those of Mathieu “ZywOo” Herbaut.
He also praised Boombl4 for helping players from different Counter-Strike backgrounds work within the same system.
BETBOOM prepare for MOUZ rematch
BETBOOM will face MOUZ in the IEM Beijing 2026 semifinals on November 7. The teams previously met during the group stage, where MOUZ secured a 2:0 victory.
Magnojez admitted that BETBOOM performed below their usual level in that match, particularly in communication and shooting. However, he believes the team have improved since then and will enter the rematch in better form.
The victory over FURIA gives BETBOOM another opportunity to reach a Grand Final after their runner-up finish at Thunderpick World Championship 2026. A win against MOUZ would secure their place in the championship match in Beijing.
