The Sentinels came into VALORANT Champions Seoul with low expectations due to their rocky form. After an initial defeat to the favorites, Gen.G, they were on the verge of elimination. However, a remarkable comeback in their next two series secured their spot in the tournament. Their final victory came in a rematch against Masters Shanghai winners Gen.G. We caught up with Sentinels’ coach Adam “kaplan” Kaplan after their victory over the home favorites.
Esports.net: How satisfied are you with the 2-0 win and eliminating the tournament favorite?
Kaplan: It was a thrilling experience for us. It was special to play as the underdog for once and hear the crowd cheering. While many may now consider us the favorites, we focus on respecting our opponents and staying prepared for each match, blocking out external noise and narratives. But yes, we understand that many now see us as the team to beat.
Lee Jones: In an interview with Pedro Romero, johnqt had mentioned that he felt the team had forgotten how to win recently.
How did you turn things around to beat the favorites after struggling to secure wins?
Kaplan: A lot has changed internally for us. We understood the importance of communication and teamwork, especially during tough moments in the game. We realized the need to address frustrations, work on micro plans, and maintain constant communication. This shift in mindset and approach has been key to our recent success.
Lee Jones: Your team showed mental strength in stopping Gen.G’s momentum on both maps. What does this say about your players’ resilience?
Kaplan: Our players’ ‘go next’ attitude and emphasis on communication and collaboration have been vital in maintaining a positive mindset and overcoming challenges. Even when faced with tough situations, the team stayed optimistic and focused on problem-solving and teamwork.
Lee Jones: You mentioned learning on the job during Masters Madrid. How has that experience helped you lead SEN in this second event?
Kaplan: The experience from Masters Madrid has been invaluable in guiding us through this tournament. We have learned to be patient with our struggles, prioritize rest and downtime, and approach each game with a refreshed mindset. Additionally, the opportunity to boot camp before the event has played a significant role in our team’s comfort and performance.
For more information on Valorant VCT Champions 2024, including schedule, format, and teams, click here.
