EWC 2025 CS2: Aurora Gaming Defeat Team Falcons 2:0 to Reach Grand Final

Aurora Gaming secured a dominant 2:0 victory over Team Falcons in the semifinals of the Esports World Cup 2025, booking their place in the grand final. The Turkish squad demonstrated exceptional tactical discipline, clutch performances, and strong coordination across both maps, leaving Falcons unable to respond despite several high-pressure moments.

Map Picks and Vetoes

The map selection process shaped the series:

• Aurora removed: Ancient
• Falcons removed: Overpass
• Aurora picked: Inferno
• Falcons picked: Train
• Aurora removed: Nuke
• Falcons removed: Dust2

The remaining map, Mirage, was never played as Aurora closed the series in two maps.

Map 1 — Inferno (13:6, Aurora)

Aurora dominated the first map from the start. The first half ended 9:3, with key defensive rounds and smart rotations putting them in control. Falcons attempted a comeback in the second half, but winning only 4 rounds was not enough to challenge Aurora’s momentum.

Key Highlights:

• M1R5: XANTARES pulled off a clutch 1v2 after the bomb had been planted, turning the round in Aurora’s favor.
• M1R12: woxic secured a clutch 1v3 post-plant, further extending Aurora’s lead.

Train proved more competitive, with Aurora taking the first half 7:5. The second half remained tight at 6:6, but Aurora managed to maintain their edge and close the map 13:11. Strategic executions, strong mid control, and key clutches were decisive in the final rounds.

Key Highlights:

• M2R1: Wicadia won a clutch 1v4 on CT side before the bomb was planted, setting the tone for the second half.
• M2R19: MAJ3R performed a clutch 1v3 on the T side before the bomb plant, breaking the tie at 9:9 and seizing the initiative.

XANTARES led the series statistically, posting ADR 92.1, Swing +4.92%, and a rating of 1.52. His impactful plays and clutch rounds were critical to Aurora’s victories on both maps.

With this 2:0 win, Aurora Gaming advance to the grand final of EWC 2025. Their tactical composure, decisive clutches, and ability to control momentum under pressure made the difference in the series. Team Falcons, despite fighting hard, will now play in the third-place match against Vitality for a chance to secure a podium finish.

The Esports World Cup 2025 takes place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from August 20–24, featuring 16 top teams battling for a $1,250,000 prize pool. The champion earns $500,000, second place secures $230,000, and third place takes $130,000. The tournament follows a single-elimination bracket with best-of-three matches leading up to a best-of-five grand final.