The IEM Cologne playoff stage is set to begin shortly with six teams taking the stage in the infamous LANXESS arena, hoping to be the ones lifting the trophy on Grand Final Sunday.
However, Counter-Strike action will start much earlier, with two quarter-finals game taking place this Friday. On media day we had the opportunity to speak with Jimi “Jimpphat” Salo ahead of MOUZ’s matchup with G2.
Credit: Stephanie Lindgren | ©PGL
Bruno: Congratulations on qualifying for the quarter-finals. You defeated Falcons and Complexity, and had a loss against Vitality.
How would you rate MOUZ’s group stage performance?
Jimpphat: I am really happy that we made it to the arena. Our first two games were a bit shaky, but we are pleased to have qualified. The match against Vitality was tough, especially on the first map. Overall, we are satisfied with our performance and progress.
Bruno: MOUZ is a German organization.
Does playing for a German organization motivate you to push for qualification?
Jimpphat: Yes, having the support of German fans is important to us. We rarely have fans cheering for us when we play in other countries, so playing in Germany gives us a unique opportunity to have local support. It boosts our confidence and morale as a team.
Bruno: Many critics doubt MOUZ’s ability to perform on the big stage.
Do you think fan support can propel you to success in key matches?
Jimpphat: Fan support definitely helps in boosting our confidence. Ultimately, our performance on the big stage depends on how we play as a team. However, the fans’ encouragement can make a difference, especially in tough games.
Bruno: MOUZ has been playing a lot of Vertigo, with mixed results.
What are your thoughts on the map and its gameplay?
Jimpphat: Vertigo is a unique map that our team enjoys playing. Personally, it’s not my favorite due to the positions I play, but as a team, we excel on Vertigo. Our wins and losses on the map often come down to minor mistakes rather than lack of skill. We are confident in our abilities on Vertigo.
Bruno: You face tough competition in the playoffs, including G2 and NAVI.
With G2’s strong form, do you believe you can compete with them, especially since they tend to perform well in playoffs?
Jimpphat: We are confident in our abilities to take on G2. Although they are in good form, we believe they are beatable, especially since they have been a good matchup for us in the past. We are excited to face their new lineup and see how the game unfolds. A victory over G2 would give us a confidence boost for future matches, including against NAVI. We are looking forward to the challenge.
Bruno: Thank you and best of luck in the playoffs.
