With a strong performance in the group stage and three impressive wins, Vitality has secured a spot in the semi-finals of IEM Cologne 2024. We had the chance to interview Mathieu “ZywOo” Herbaut prior to the playoffs.
Credit: Helena Kristiansson | ESL
Bruno: Congratulations on reaching the semis. You defeated strong teams like FURIA, MOUZ, and FaZe on your journey.
How would you assess your team’s performance so far?
ZywOo: I believe we have been performing really well in this tournament, even though we had a bit of a shaky game against FaZe. Despite not playing our best, our performance was good enough to secure the win. I’m pleased with how everyone on the team has been contributing individually, making good calls, and maintaining positive energy throughout the games. If we continue in this manner, we have the capability to defeat any opponent. I would say that in our match against MOUZ, we had even better morale and energy compared to the game against FaZe, yet we managed to come out on top.
Bruno: You always exchange kisses on the cheek with your teammates after the games.
Is this to boost team morale?
ZywOo: It actually started in a tournament with flameZ, and we found it fun, so we decided to continue the tradition. It’s just something we enjoy doing as a team.
Bruno: We’ve seen you using the rifle more as an AWPer lately. Is this a strategic choice or a personal preference?
ZywOo: It’s a combination of both. To be successful as one of the best teams in the world, it’s crucial to have a strong AWP presence. My team needs me to be versatile and impactful, so I adapt based on what is needed. If I feel more comfortable with the AK, I will go for that weapon. However, if the team requires an AWP presence or I feel that I can perform better with the AWP, I will switch to it. It all boils down to my instincts and what will benefit the team the most.
“If I feel better with the AK, I will take the AK obviously. But if I feel the team needs an AWP or I’m maybe bad with the AK and can be better with the AWP, I will take it.”
It’s about finding a balance between personal preference and tactical necessity. If the moment calls for it, I’ll pick up the AWP.
Bruno: Vitality has had several strong performances this year but hasn’t clinched a win yet.
What do you believe has been the main factor holding your team back?
ZywOo: Our losses in Dallas, EPL Grand Finals, and other tournaments were mostly due to our mentality. We weren’t mentally prepared to face those crucial moments, allowing the opposing teams too many opportunities. We lacked positive energy and spirit in those instances. That’s why I emphasize the importance of maintaining good energy and attitude. We have been focusing on this since the beginning of the season, and we understand that bringing positive vibes can elevate our performance collectively at Vitality.
Following the example set by NAVI, who excel in this aspect, we are striving to replicate that success. Despite the pressure of playoffs and stage performances, it’s essential to remind ourselves to stay positive and united in our approach.
Credit: ESL on X
Bruno: With the team currently in high spirits,
Do you believe this is the opportune moment to secure a victory like Cologne?
ZywOo: This could indeed be the right time for us to clinch a victory. We have been performing exceptionally well lately, but we must remember to take it one game at a time. It’s crucial to stay grounded and not get ahead of ourselves by thinking about potential future victories. The upcoming semi-final against SAW or FaZe will undoubtedly be challenging, so we need to maintain our focus, work hard, and stay united as a team.
Bruno: Spirit exited early with donk and m0nesy, and G2 is on the opposite side of the bracket.
Have you given any thought to your personal performance and the pursuit of being the best CS2 player?
ZywOo: While I aspire to be the best, I also appreciate seeing other players rise to the top rankings. It provides me with motivation to push myself further and acknowledge that I’m not perfect. Witnessing others put in the effort to surpass me encourages me to work harder. I find it inspiring to see talents like donk and m0NESY making waves in the scene.
Bruno: On the other side of the bracket, G2 and NAVI stand out as the top teams. You haven’t faced the revamped G2 or NAVI in a while.
If given the choice, which team would you prefer to face?
ZywOo: Looking at their recent performances, G2 has been dominant since their defeat to SAW. Personally, I would lean towards facing NAVI as we have a history of good preparation against them, and they may not enjoy playing against us as much. However, we must be prepared to face both formidable opponents. G2’s track record against NAVI adds an element of uncertainty to their matchup, so we need to be prepared for any scenario. Our primary focus should be on the upcoming semi-final against FaZe or SAW and taking it one step at a time.
Lastly, do you have a favorite moment from past editions of Cologne?
ZywOo: One of my favorite moments was in 2019 when I reached the final for the first time. It was a significant milestone for me to play on a big stage and witness the crowd’s energy. That experience has stuck with me as one of my best memories, alongside the Major achievements.
Bruno: Thank you for the interview, and best of luck in the upcoming matches.
