The play-off stage at IEM Katowice 2023 is in full swing and the first pair of semi-finalists has already been determined: Natus Vincere vs Heroic. Maincast commentator Fedir KvaN Zakharov made an exclusive prediction for this match for Cover.gg.
NAVI vs Outsiders
In the quarter-finals, Natus Vincere defeated Outsiders with a score of 2:0. The team led by Denis electroNic Sharipov demonstrated a good CS teamwork, which allowed them to overcome the opponent in a relatively equal match. The individual statistics of the cyber athletes also confirm the equality of the teams.
The pool of maps for NAVI turned out to be very successful. In my opinion, on all three maps [Overpass, Inferno, Mirage], the chances were 55 to 45. As a result, it ended 2:0 with close scores.
Is Heroic favorite?
Heroic approached the IEM Katowice 2023 semi-finals as the favorite regardless of the opponent. Casper cadiaN Møller's team has regained its best form and is clearly targeting the trophy. NAVI in its current form does not look as daunting a competitor as before, but they can certainly rattle nerves. Where one tight map is, there is a victory in the match!
If we compare the average performance of both teams in this tournament, the superiority of Heroic is evident. The arena, which will mostly support the Ukrainian team, can play a major role in this confrontation. Nevertheless, Danish esports athletes have already established themselves as a team that knows how to deal with the pressure of the crowd.
Prediction from KvaN
The match with Heroic will be much harder for NAVI. It is clear that the Danes have regained their top form and will play to the maximum. I think the score will be 2:1 in favor of Heroic.
Making it to the semi-final with a new player is already a great result [for NAVI]. It's great that the team is showing growth from tournament to tournament. Now the priority is to play more maps and connections to the Major!
IEM Katowice 2023 takes place from February 1st to 12th in Poland. Teams are competing for a prize pool of one million dollars. Follow the schedule and results of the championship through the link.
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