The standout player for MAD Lions KOI at Worlds so far, support Álvaro Alvaro Fernández played a critical role in his team’s 2-1 victory against PSG Talon to secure a spot in the Swiss Stage. We had the opportunity to interview him right after the win.
Esports.net: Both you and Supa received a lot of praise for your performance in the bot lane today.
How satisfied are you with your performance?
Alvaro: I’m extremely satisfied because I believe that I, especially, elevated my game and provided a lot of confidence to the team.
However, I can’t say I’m fully content because I’m a very competitive person who always strives for more. I’m looking forward to facing opponents in the Swiss stage and believe that we need to put in a lot of training.
Lee Jones: MDK had early leads in some instances today but couldn’t maintain them.
Why do you think that happened?
Alvaro: We secured these early leads because we excel as a team in the early game strategy. However, the slips later in the game occurred because we weren’t fully aware of certain aspects unfolding during the match.
Alvaro: For instance, I recall a game where we were fighting in the bot lane while the enemy team flanked us from both sides. In that moment, we lacked confidence and failed to make a decisive move in either direction. These slips happened in every game.
Image credit: Riot Games
Lee Jones: Let’s talk about Elyoya not buying items in game two.
What was that moment like when the realization hit?
Alvaro: Everyone was focused on their individual tasks, discussing strategies for the game. While Elyoya was doing the red buff, he suddenly realized he hadn’t purchased any items.
I was taken aback, quickly assessed the situation, and focused on performing my best in the bot lane to make an impact.
Fortunately, despite the mishap, he wasn’t punished severely as the enemy team advanced towards the top lane. It was a bit nerve-wracking but we managed to navigate through it.
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Why do you think you have been performing exceptionally well at Worlds?
Alvaro: Honestly, I’m not entirely sure. I recognize my skills and believe I have even more potential. I feel like I’m playing decently, but there’s still room for improvement. I believe it’s related to my mental state, something I’ve been working on with my team and psychologist. It’s a deep-rooted issue that stems back to my childhood. It’s a journey of self-reflection and growth that I aim to continue in the future to become a better player.
Image credit: Riot Games
Lee Jones: There was skepticism around MDK’s LEC winrate before Worlds, with doubts about the team’s qualification.
Do you feel the need to prove yourselves now that you’re at Worlds?
Alvaro: There will always be critics. Currently, people might argue that PSG is underperforming and we don’t belong here. I choose not to pay heed to such negativity. Constructive feedback is valuable, but those who questioned our winrate didn’t comprehend the dynamics of our league. We were one of the top teams in the league, almost defeating Fnatic and nearly reaching the finals. We were strong at that time.
I made a lighthearted remark that participating in the Play-Ins might improve our winrate, so we could end the year on a positive note. For me, it wasn’t about proving a point, but rather focusing on our capabilities as a team and what we could achieve.
Lee Jones: MDK had minimal expectations at the beginning of the year, yet you’ve made it to the Worlds main event now.
What’s the goal now that you’ve advanced to the Swiss Stage?
Alvaro: Personally, my goal – though risky – is to make it to the top eight. I want to compete in Paris and play a best-of-five. I believe we excel in such formats mentally and strategically. I aim to improve individually and as a team, savor the experience, and give our best on the international stage. My expectation is to at least secure a top-eight finish and give it our all.
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