Despite entering the finale of the LEC Season Finals as the first qualifiers, Fnatic’s more than 2,000-day wait for a title continues. The team started the series strong, with a 1-1 split in games, showcasing impressive performances. However, they ultimately fell short to G2, losing the series 3-1. Humanoid put up a respectable display, aiming to become only the second mid laner to defeat G2’s Caps in an LEC final.
Esports.net: Even though you didn’t win the final, Fnatic played well in many matches and seemed like they had a chance at the title.
What do you think was the key factor that prevented you from clinching the victory?
Humanoid: I believe they outperformed us in the mid-game and late-game. We were too focused on engaging in fights, while they played more strategically, securing objectives first. We were always on the back foot, and they had control over the map, making it challenging for us.
Lee Jones: Fnatic seemed to have control in game one for the most part.
Why do you think that game ended in G2’s favor?
Humanoid: During that game, there were instances where we had the advantage near objectives but opted to retreat and give G2 control. This allowed them to walk in and take control, forcing us into disadvantageous fights. It was a tough battle after that.
Why do you think there was hesitation to go for objectives? Was it due to playing cautiously in the first game of an important final?
Humanoid: I don’t think it was about playing cautiously. G2 simply had better decision-making than us. We struggled to secure objectives without engaging in fights, which is our usual strategy. Playing against a team that doesn’t play into our style was challenging for us.
Image credit: LEC
Did this lead to winning game two, with G2 being more willing to engage in fights?
Humanoid: In game two, we managed to outplay them in teamfights. Once we gained the lead, it was easier to finish the game as their composition lacked comeback potential. We also had superior scaling compared to them.
Lee Jones: Despite today’s result, you still haven’t defeated Caps in a final, but your performance against him in lane was solid, at the very least.
Do you feel confident that you have what it takes to defeat him in a final on another occasion?
Humanoid: I believe Caps and I are above the rest in terms of skill. Other players may excel in mechanics, but we have a better understanding of the competitive scene. I think we are a level above everyone else.
Lee Jones: Finishing in third place three times is impressive, especially with G2’s dominance.
Although it may be early to reflect, are you satisfied with Fnatic’s performance in the LEC this season?
Humanoid: Personally, I am not satisfied with second place. To me, being second is no different from being last. Winning is the ultimate goal, and anything less is not satisfactory. The only advantage of finishing second is qualifying for Worlds, which is crucial for us.
Photo by Michał Konkol/Riot Games
What are the next steps for preparing for Worlds? Will you take a break or dive right back into training?
Humanoid: We will likely take a short break before recommitting to training. The meta for Worlds will likely be different, so we need to prepare ourselves and determine our strategies.
Lee Jones: Having Worlds in Europe provides comfort and consistency, but lacks the grandeur of travel and large arenas.
What are your thoughts on hosting Worlds in Europe, especially in a studio setting?
Humanoid: Personally, I prefer having Worlds in a different continent than Europe, as it provides a change of scenery and excitement. Spending most of the year in Berlin makes it less thrilling to have Worlds here. I enjoy the travel aspect of Worlds, but we will make the best of the situation and aim to reach Paris at the very least.
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