apEX on Dust2: “That’s exactly why we got knocked out of IEM Cologne.”

We started training a week ago. First, we made sure we were well-rested and had enough energy for the entire season, and then we began practicing. We didn’t go to boot camp; we started playing from home. We tried to figure out exactly what went wrong at the last tournament and why we weren’t able to win the Major. We focused on analyzing many maps, particularly Dust2, which had been our best map for a year and a half. Now, I genuinely believe that it was precisely because of that map that we were eliminated from IEM Cologne. This was the first time this had happened, so we need to examine the problem in detail and resolve it as soon as possible.

Of course, just like any other favorites, we can lose in the early stages. The main reason is that it’s the start of the season, when no one has had time to get into top form yet. On top of that, this stage takes place online, which adds an element of chance. On top of that, many teams—such as Liquid, for example—want to make a good impression: they’re making roster changes and bringing in new players. I can understand Team Falcons; the guys looked nervous and frustrated because of what happened. In online matches, that’s very dangerous—you have to stay calm and always take every opponent seriously. I hope that’s exactly what we’ll be able to do today.

I don’t even know what to say about all the recent roster changes. I’m flattered that so many teams are constantly trying to strengthen their rosters and make substitutions to beat us. There have been a lot of roster changes, and that’s always exciting—because if you want to be number one, you have to beat everyone, without exception. Maybe today, Team Liquid and we will put on a show for the world and play—like Team Falcons or Team Spirit did—a long series with three maps and overtime. Personally, of course, I hope that doesn’t happen, but it’s good for the audience’s entertainment. I’m not a big fan of making predictions, so I’ll just say that we’ll give it our all, and that’s the only thing that matters.