The captain of the Natus Vincere lineup, Aleksi "Aleksib" Virolainen, shared his thoughts on the current state of the team and expectations for the PGL Astana 2025 tournament. In an interview, he discussed the challenges faced by the team in 2024, the importance of upcoming matches, and their preparation for the Major.

A New Opportunity at the PGL Astana Tournament

PGL Astana 2025 is not just another tournament. For NAVI, it's a chance to play numerous maps and matches, which will not only improve their game but also restore team chemistry. Aleksi stated that the team is focused on the process and confident in their preparation. For them, it's not just a stage in the tournament but an opportunity to reach a new level.

Losing to Falcons in the match for playoffs, when we were leading 11-3 on Mirage, was a heavy blow to our confidence. We could almost taste the playoffs, but we blew the lead, and that was a major test for the team.

Aleksi "Aleksib" Virolainen

In addition, the captain emphasizes that the team has been working hard on their mistakes and analyzing their games lately. However, the key point is their mental readiness for the upcoming tournaments, where NAVI must showcase their potential.

We've spent so many hours reviewing, discussing after tournaments and matches. We understand what needs to be done to be the best, but we need to be mentally ready. We have two tournaments left to show that we are the same NAVI.

Aleksi "Aleksib" Virolainen

Aleksi also highlighted the importance of the PGL Astana tournament for the team. It will not only be an opportunity to prove themselves in matches but also good preparation for the Major. In this regard, PGL Astana gives the team a chance to play a large number of maps and gain the experience necessary to restore confidence.

This tournament is an opportunity to play as many maps as possible, train, gain confidence, and prepare for the Major. We see it as a chance to rebuild team trust and return to our best form.

Aleksi "Aleksib" Virolainen

For the captain, despite all the challenges, the most important task is not only achieving victories but also restoring the team's inner spirit.

For me, the most important thing is to feel the team, see trust and productivity, even when we lose. We want to be ourselves, play as well as we can, and not dwell on the negatives.

Aleksi "Aleksib" Virolainen

In 2024, Natus Vincere faced unstable results, which led to a wave of criticism towards the lineup. The failure at the Melbourne tournament, where the team did not reach the playoffs, was particularly painful. PGL Astana is one of NAVI's last chances before the Major to redeem themselves and demonstrate their competitiveness.