In an interview with bo3.gg, Mikhail "iM" Ivan from NAVI discussed whether their direct entry into the semi-finals of IEM Cologne 2024, due to their performance in the group stage, provides an advantage to their team.
"I think it puts us at a disadvantage, but it could also be an advantage. The downside is that our opponents will have that experience; they will be used to the stage, likely feel more comfortable starting the game, and, in most cases, they might not have a slow start, so to speak.
However, our advantage is that we will see how they react to the stage, and we can prepare for that. Plus, we can step onto the stage and get a feel for the atmosphere without facing it in our first game. So, I think the chances are 50/50."
The Romanian esports player also shared his thoughts on whether he experiences nerves while playing on stage in front of an audience.
"If there are any nerves, for me, it will be in the first two or three rounds, and then I get used to it. If I look at the crowd, see them cheering and all that, it’s fun for me. But, in reality, it's just me and my monitor, nothing else."