Monte has shown an outstanding performance in recent years. Within 208 days of 2023, they played 208 maps, and their efforts have paid off with a strong presence in online tournaments and an impressive run to the quarter-finals at the BLAST.tv Paris Major.
Before the start of IEM Cologne, Monte faced the loss of BOROS, a player who often helped them turn defeats into victories. Despite this setback, Monte approached Cologne with an attacking mindset. They have already defeated FURIA and Imperial, and now their aim is to advance to the playoffs. On their journey, they will encounter GamerLegion, a team that had previously defeated them in Paris.
After the Major, you took some time off. How do you feel now that you’ve returned to the competitive scene? Do you enjoy it?
sdy: Yes, I feel great. We didn’t have much time to prepare, but we are trying to improve step by step, making progress in each match. We have identified many issues and are working hard to address them.
You are still the in-game leader. Have you started conveying your ideas to the team?
sdy: I think this might take a few more tournaments or maybe a lifetime of continuous communication. I believe I have a good understanding of the game, especially when playing with this team. Now that we have more tactical systems in place, I can rely on my teammates without worrying about the team falling apart for no reason.
Let’s talk about signing br0. His playstyle is more passive compared to BOROS. Does it make it easier for you to lead? Not so much of a lone wolf?
sdy: Yes, it depends on the situation. When playing with BOROS, his playstyle was excellent, and we built our game around it, trying to maximize his strengths. When he left, we chose to sign br0 and also make the most of his strengths. So we are just trying to play the best game possible at any given moment. We know our players have the ability to do that, it’s all about individual skills, and we need to rely on them. We can’t always play the same way.
How do you feel about playing with br0? Is he adapting well?
sdy: br0 is doing great, and he’s improving every day. We still have many issues to solve, but we are working with him and everyone else, and I feel he’s putting in a lot of effort and trying his best.
You are back in Cologne, where you reached the finals last year. Do you think you can make it to the playoffs again this year?
sdy: If you are not ready to reach the playoffs, you shouldn’t even come to compete.
Considering the team’s structure, BOROS was undoubtedly a crucial factor. Who are the star players now, and how is the team’s structure?
sdy: I believe the whole team is a big star, and we leave space for everyone. But Woro2k and I might have more room for maneuvering compared to others.
