“I’d remove Freya permanently”: A short interview with Teddy from Team Liquid PH at MSC 2026
During the MLBB Mid Season Cup 2026, we asked Team Liquid PH rookie Dave “Teddyqt” Vianier a few questions. In an interview with OFFSTAGE, the goldlaner talked about his transition from the club’s academy, adapting to the highest level, and assessed the meta for his role.
Hi! In March of this year, you were promoted from Team Liquid’s academy roster to the main roster. How unexpected was this rapid rise for you—from the MDL to the main “star” roster?
Yeah, it really was a very unexpected turn of events. Ever since I moved up from MDL, I’ve called it a real miracle—going from the academy league straight to the world stage.
How did you adjust to the main roster? Which of your teammates helped you the most with overcoming your nerves and getting used to playing against Tier 1 teams?
I quickly settled in both in the MPL and on the main roster thanks to the trust my teammates and coaches placed in me. I’m closest to Sanford on the team—he gives me a ton of advice, especially when we’re practicing one-on-one duels.
You mentioned the coaching staff. You have two coaches on your roster. Do they work with you one-on-one, breaking down specific plays, or do you only practice as a whole team?
We only work as a whole team, but they give me specific tips and advice tailored to my role.
How different is the gameplay between the academy and the main roster? Or is the structure the same across the board within the same club?
The difference between the MDL and the MPL is that the level of pressure and competition is much higher in the latter. Both in terms of micro-management and teamwork, it’s on a completely different level.
Earlier this year, people were saying there was a catastrophic shortage of strong heroes on the Gold tier. Do you think the problem with the hero pool has been resolved now? Are there any unpopular picks that can perform at a high level?
In my opinion, there are now plenty of options for the Gold lane, especially among fighters. Due to the changes in the patch for the jungle—where hyper-carry champions dominate—side-laners have had to adapt: now they don’t need to drag out their farming for too long. The main late-game potential has now shifted to the jungle.
Since we’re on the topic of fighters: who’s currently the better choice on the gold lane—them or marksmen?
I think it all depends on the draft, the draft strategy, and what the team has been practicing in scrims.
In the match against Aurora Gaming, you played two maps on Cloud. If you don’t mind me asking, why him specifically? Is he your signature hero or a team pick?
It was the coach’s and the team’s decision. I just followed the call and picked Cloud.
So when it comes to hero selection, you can’t suggest your own ideas—you just follow the coaches’ plan?
To some extent, I can suggest options and share ideas, but the coaches always have the final say.
What’s your main priority on your lane right now? Farming calmly with a focus on the late game, or getting involved in team fights from the early minutes?
It depends on the situation. If I’m playing a fighter, I have to help the team in the early game. But if I’m on a classic farm hero, I just scale up and only get involved in full-scale team fights in the late game.
Can you name your top 3 heroes for the Gold lane in the current meta?
My personal top 3 are Freya, Cloud, and Clint.
Which hero would you permanently remove from MLBB if you had the chance?
I’d permanently remove Freya. She’s way too overpowered.
