Falcons continue to be one of the hottest topics in the CS2 world. After high-profile transfers and the creation of a “super trio” featuring NiKo and m0NESY, the team has been under immense pressure of expectations. Fans and experts have long awaited a major breakthrough, but Falcons’ journey has been filled with both resounding victories and bitter defeats in finals. Can this roster break the barrier and finally establish itself among true champions?
From NiKo to the First Trophy
The beginning of 2025 marked a turning point for Falcons. In January, legendary Nikola “NiKo” Kovač joined the roster, leaving G2 after several seasons of searching for titles. His transfer immediately changed Falcons’ status: a team that once floated between mid-table and contenders now had a true world-class superstar. The results came quickly — already in April, Falcons won PGL Masters Bucharest 2025, sweeping G2 3–0 in the grand final. It was a symbolic moment: NiKo defeated his former teammates, and Falcons finally shed the label of a “trophyless team.”
The Arrival of m0NESY: A New Chapter
Later in April, another “super transfer” followed — Ilya “m0NESY” Osipov. He replaced degster and immediately raised the bar of expectations even higher. The NiKo + m0NESY duo was supposed to be the perfect blend of experience and youthful aggression that would allow Falcons to challenge any opponent. The Russian AWPer’s debut was loud: Falcons reached the final of IEM Melbourne, but in the decisive match they fell to Vitality despite a huge lead at the start of the series. It was the first clear sign that the team hadn’t yet learned how to close out tournaments against the strongest opposition.
Progress and Mixed Results
Despite the setback in Melbourne, Falcons showed steady growth. At the Esports World Cup in Riyadh, they finished third after defeating Vitality in the bronze medal match. It was then that m0NESY stated: “Today we showed the best game we have ever played in Falcons.”
His words were backed up by stats: an average rating of 1.26 and a 1.39 K/D over the past month. Even so, the player remained self-critical: “I’m just not getting the kills I have to get.” This attitude reflects not only his perfectionism but also the awareness that the team has not yet realized its full potential.
Falcons’ Strengths
- Star-studded roster. The NiKo + m0NESY combination is a rare luxury even for top-tier teams. Under coach zonic, Falcons have two world-class players capable of deciding matches on their own.
- Upward momentum. From the victory in Bucharest to the Melbourne final and third place at the EWC — Falcons have consistently stayed in the mix for top results.
- Motivation and pressure. Everyone in the lineup knows this project was built for trophies. That pressure forces them to work at their limits.
Problems and Challenges
- Finals barrier. Falcons have yet to prove they can consistently win finals. Losses to Vitality in decisive matches exposed a lack of mental resilience.
- Frequent roster changes. Throughout the year, the lineup has changed too often. To achieve stability, players need time to adapt to their roles.
- Weight of expectations. The organization and fans demand instant results. If the team lingers without major victories, a new wave of criticism could begin.
What Could Be the Solution?
- Psychological preparation. Bringing in a sports psychologist or specialized mental training programs could help in high-pressure matches.
- Role optimization. Balancing m0NESY’s aggressive style with NiKo’s structured approach should be the key to stability.
- Time and consistency. Avoiding unnecessary roster shuffles will allow the team to unlock its full potential.
Will Falcons Win a Trophy This Year?
.@StrikerHLTVorg: "[Falcons] are still not at the same level as they were at since m0NESY came in […] I am the guy who does put a lot of expectations on them because they've been the ones who talk big game." 👀
Can Falcons win a trophy this year with this line-up? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/ICZW9CBCKi
— HLTV Confirmed (@HLTVconfirmed) September 8, 2025
Analysts, including HLTV, often note that Falcons themselves raised the bar of expectations when they assembled a superstar lineup. And while today the team is not yet at the level of dominant G2 during m0NESY’s early era, their potential is enormous.
- Optimistic scenario: the very next big event could be their breakthrough.
- Realistic scenario: consistent playoff runs and a few finals, but no guaranteed title.
- Pessimistic scenario: more disappointments in decisive games, potentially triggering roster changes.
One thing is certain: Falcons have already come close to the summit. Now it depends on them whether they can take the final step — transforming from a “team of stars” into a true “champion team.”
