Modern eSports and football may seem to be on different planes, but if you look deeper, you can find many parallels between these two worlds. One of the most striking examples is the similarity in the tactical approaches of the MOUZ team in CS2 and the actions of Kylian Mbappe in Paris Saint-Germain. In both the virtual battle on the map and on the real football pitch, the main tasks are the use of space, coordination and the ability to explode with dynamics at the right time.
This article explores how two such different sports overlap at their core, focusing on the similarities in tactical thinking, adaptability and the desire to win.
In Counter-Strike 2 (CS2), as in its predecessor CS:GO, space control is one of the key tasks. MOUZ is known for its strategic style of play, where each zone of the map has a clearly assigned role. Players consistently control key points, such as “banana” on the Inferno map or “middle” on Mirage. Their approach combines a precise understanding of timing with the calculated use of utility grenades (smoke, molotov and flashbang) to push the enemy out of advantageous positions. MOUZ often rely on dividing the map into zones of responsibility. For example, one player can “draw” the attention of the opponent in one direction, while the rest prepare a strategic attack on the other side of the map. This allows for the most efficient use of space and mislead the enemy.
Now let’s move to the football pitch. Kylian Mbappe is a master of space manipulation. His ability to find and exploit spaces on the flanks makes him a key player for PSG. Like MOUZ, Mbappe does not operate chaotically. His runs appear spontaneous, but are actually based on a calculated understanding of how the opponent is positioned. Mbappe uses speed and dribbling to draw defenders out of position, creating space for his teammates. This approach is similar to the “byte” in CS2, where one MOUZ player “pulls” opponents out, allowing his team to seize the initiative.
MOUZ are known for their ability to quickly adapt to the opponent’s actions. In CS2, this is especially important due to the new grenade physics and other features that affect the dynamics of the rounds. For example, if a team realizes that the opponent is defending the B site with two players, they can quickly reorient themselves to attack A using fake smoke and distractions. This adaptability requires a high level of team synchronization. MOUZ players must not only instantly react to changes in the game, but also understand the intentions of their teammates. On the football pitch, Mbappe shows a similar ability to improvise. If the opponent’s defense changes, he instantly changes the direction of movement or the style of attack. Mbappe can drop deeper into the field to help play the ball, or suddenly accelerate, finding himself in the finishing zone. This requires not only physical fitness, but also the ability to instantly read the game and make decisions.
MOUZ tend to prepare their attacks carefully to fire at the right moment. It’s like a football combination where every pass leads to a scoring opportunity. For example, after MOUZ clear key areas and force the opponent to regroup, they quickly go on the attack. Their key players, like Frozen or torzsi, take on the role of “finishers”, accurately shooting at the most important targets. On another field, in another sport, Mbappe plays the same role of “finisher”. When he receives the ball in the penalty area, his actions become deadly. One feint, one powerful shot – and the opponent is in a losing position. Like MOUZ, Mbappe combines individual skill with team support to effectively finish the attack.