The pressure of playing for a tier-one organization like Team Falcons is immense, especially for a young talent like Maxim "kyousuke" Lukin. Following a fourth-place finish at the Thunderpick World Championship 2026, the team is looking to reset ahead of IEM Beijing, and star AWPer Ilya "m0NESY" Osipov has offered some candid advice to his teammate to help him navigate his current form.
While kyousuke remains a standout prospect, recent official matches have seen him struggle to replicate the high-level performance he displays during practice and FACEIT sessions. According to m0NESY, the issue is not mechanical. Instead, it stems from the mental weight of being a key player in a top-tier roster.
Overthinking the Role
"Maybe sometimes kyousuke overthinks and he thinks that he's forced to say something, to always do something," m0NESY explained during the media day at IEM Beijing. The AWPer emphasized that his teammate often feels an unnecessary obligation to constantly provide input or force plays because of the importance of his position within the team.
This "overthinking" is a common trap for young players transitioning into the highest level of competitive CS2. While communication is vital, m0NESY believes that the most effective path forward for the 18-year-old is simplicity. "Everything that he needs, most of the time, is to just focus on his crosshair and be himself."
What’s Next for Falcons
The team has spent the last two weeks focusing on the basics—confidence, decision-making, and team cohesion—following their exit from the Thunderpick World Championship. With the squad still hunting for a major trophy this season, stabilizing their core is the primary objective.
The coaching staff and the rest of the roster are actively supporting kyousuke, dismissing any concerns that his early-career success or pressure has permanently impacted his motivation. As the team prepares for their upcoming matches, the focus will be on allowing their young rifler the freedom to play his natural game rather than forcing him into a rigid communication role that may be hindering his individual impact.
For more insights on the current Team Falcons trajectory and upcoming tournament action, keep an eye on our MyEsports predictions.