3DMAX defeated FUT in a three-map series at IEM Krakow 2026 Stage 1

The match between FUT and 3DMAX became a true test of character for both teams at IEM Krakow 2026 Stage 1. The series went the full distance, delivering overtimes, comebacks, and constant momentum shifts. Despite a dramatic loss on Ancient, 3DMAX managed to regroup, turn the series around, and secure the victory, while FUT, after a strong start, failed to close out the matchup.

Map Veto:

1. FUT removed Inferno
2. 3DMAX removed Mirage
3. FUT picked Ancient
4. 3DMAX picked Anubis
5. FUT removed Nuke
6. 3DMAX removed Overpass
7. Dust2 was left over

Ancient (16:13 FUT)

The match opened on FUT’s map pick, where they confidently started on the T side and took an early 6:0 lead. 3DMAX managed to reduce the deficit and closed the first half at 4:8. In the second half, the French side seized the initiative and put together a seven-round streak that brought them close to map point, but FUT won the final two crucial rounds to force overtime. In overtime, 3DMAX secured only one round, conceding Ancient to FUT with a 13:16 scoreline.

Anubis (16:13 3DMAX)

A similar scenario to Ancient unfolded on Anubis, but this time in favor of 3DMAX. The French squad opened with three rounds on the CT side, after which FUT took control and finished the first half leading 8:4. The momentum shifted after the side swap, as 3DMAX moved to the T side and, despite dropping four rounds, allowed FUT to reach match point. 3DMAX then pulled off the near-impossible, completing a comeback from 5:12 and pushing the map into overtime, where they closed it out 16:13.

Dust2 (13:5 3DMAX)

Dust2 was played entirely on 3DMAX’s terms, as they set the pace from the opening rounds. The French team delivered a confident CT-side performance, ending the first half with a comfortable 9:3 lead. After the side switch, 3DMAX had no trouble finishing the job, denying FUT any chance of a comeback and closing the map 13:5.

Match MVP

The MVP of the match was Lucky, who finished the series with a 1.19 rating.

3DMAX secure an important victory in a hard-fought series and advance further, while FUT, despite their comeback on Ancient, were unable to maintain control and drop to the lower bracket, where they will face Legacy. IEM Krakow 2026 Stage 1 runs from January 28 to 30, with only 8 of the 16 teams advancing to the main stage.