AMKAL Makes a Bold Entry into Counter-Strike with 1WIN’s Elite Trio

The esports landscape just got more exciting with AMKAL’s foray into Counter-Strike. Known for its roots in media football, the team, founded by the popular YouTube blogger German “El Classico” Popkov in 2018, is now expanding its horizons to include competitive gaming. This strategic move marks a significant milestone for AMKAL, signaling their ambition to make a mark in the global esports arena.

AMKAL’s Acquisition of 1WIN Trio

AMKAL has made headlines by securing contracts with former 1WIN players Aleksei “NickelBack” Trofimov, Igor “Forester” Bezotecheskiy, and Aleksandr “TRAVIS” Timkiv. This strategic move not only bolsters AMKAL’s roster but also secures the team a spot in the prestigious Europe RMR closed qualifier for the upcoming PGL Major Copenhagen, scheduled for January 18-20.

New Faces in AMKAL’s Lineup

Joining the 1WIN core are Vladislav “Krad” Kravchenko, formerly of FORZE, and Kaisar “ICY” Faiznurov from AVANGAR. Krad, who made a comeback to FORZE’s starting lineup in October after being benched in July, concluded the season with them before transitioning to AMKAL.

ICY, with a two-year tenure at AVANGAR and an impressive average rating of 1.14 in 2023, is also stepping up to the challenge. Last year, he recorded a modest 23 official matches, a figure that is expected to increase as he elevates his competition level with AMKAL.

AMKAL’s Expansion into Counter-Strike

AMKAL’s venture into Counter-Strike represents a significant expansion from its original identity as a Moscow-based media football club. The team gained popularity in Russia by featuring celebrities, including YouTubers, influencers, and actors, in football matches. Now, they are set to enter the competitive world of Counter-Strike ahead of the 2024 season, adding a new dimension to their already diverse portfolio.

The Core Team of AMKAL

• Aleksei “NickelBack” Trofimov (Russia)
• Igor “Forester” Bezotecheskiy (Russia)
• Aleksandr “TRAVIS” Timkiv (Russia)
• Vladislav “Krad” Kravchenko (Russia)
• Kaisar “ICY” Faiznurov (Kazakhstan)

With this fresh start, AMKAL is poised to become a significant force in the Counter-Strike community. The blend of seasoned professionals and ambitious new talent sets the stage for what could be an exhilarating Journey in the world of esports.