NAF of Team Liquid is known as Counter-Strike’s Mr. Consistent, having been a key player on the roster since 2018. His crowning achievement with Liquid was winning the 2019 Intel Grand Slam.
We had the opportunity to catch up with NAF before Liquid’s Group C run at ESL Pro League Season 19, where he provided valuable insights into the team’s current status.
Daniel Morris: The last LAN event at IEM Chengdu 2024 showcased the best performance we’ve seen from Liquid so far.
What has the team been focusing on to continue their positive momentum?
NAF: Our recent performance in Chengdu was indeed a positive result for us. While we were satisfied with our showing, we did feel like we could have progressed further, especially in the close match against FaZe. Losing to FaZe in the Playoffs is nothing to be ashamed of, and we were pleased with our overall performance in Chengdu.
Credit: PGL
NAF: Following our return to Los Angeles, we faced disappointment in the EWC qualifier and failing to qualify, losing to M80. However, we remain focused, especially with the upcoming LAN event and our confidence going into the tournament. We acknowledge the expectations and criticisms from fans and strive to showcase a strong performance to garner positive feedback.
Daniel Morris: Despite the setback of not qualifying for the Major,
How did the team recover mentally from this disappointment?
NAF: Failing to qualify for the Major was a significant disappointment for us. Missing out on a Major has various implications, both financially, in terms of stickers, and for the organization. We were all disappointed, but in the competitive world of CS, there are opportunities for redemption through various events. We remain committed to improving and moving forward, despite the challenges of consecutive events and losses.
Credit: IEM on X.
Daniel Morris: As the longest-standing member of the current Liquid roster,
Did you feel additional responsibility in helping newcomer skullz adapt to the team quickly?
NAF: While I tend to be reserved, our vocal players like YEKINDAR, cadiaN, and Twistzz take the lead in guiding skullz. I offer my insights when necessary, but I believe in allowing players to express their style and play the game they enjoy. For skullz, it was important to support his confidence in his abilities. I focus on my own performance and share feedback when needed, while allowing the vocal players to guide his integration into the team.
Daniel Morris: Up next for Liquid is FURIA at ESL Pro League.
What are your expectations for this matchup, considering their recent roster change?
NAF: Facing FURIA in our upcoming match is intriguing, especially with their new IGL in FalleN. I have experience playing with FalleN in a different team and understand his calling style. We need to capitalize on the opportunity to secure positive results early in the event to boost our confidence. Playing against FalleN adds excitement and familiarity, and I believe we can leverage this knowledge to perform effectively against them.
Credit: PGL
NAF: Our goal for this event is to reach the Playoffs and ideally secure a top 6 or top 8 placement. Given the changes in our team and the importance of points for invites, a strong finish is crucial for our overall standing and performance. We aim to address past disappointments and demonstrate our capabilities in this tournament.
Credit: IEM on X.
Daniel Morris: What are your thoughts on the new map pool change, specifically Dust 2 replacing Overpass?
How do you view this alteration to the map pool?
NAF: Personally, I find the addition of Dust 2 unexciting, as I consider the map to be repetitive and lackluster. The existing map pool, including Vertigo and Anubis, has its flaws, and the new changes fail to address these issues. While Dust 2 provides consistency in gameplay, it lacks innovation and the appeal of previous maps like Train or Cobble. The current map pool, in my opinion, is one of the weakest in my CS career, but as professionals, we adapt and strive to perform regardless of the challenges presented.
