"Everything we're doing is worse than before. I can't really tell you what the reasons are. We just need to make better plans"
With a 0-2 record at the First Stand 2025 tournament, Karmine Corp now finds itself with its back against the wall. In a press conference, jungler Martin "Yike" Sundelin and support Raphaël "Targamas" Crabbé discussed the unprecedented loss and the current situation the team faces after their defeat to CTBC Flying Oyster.
Yike, You didn't show the same confidence as in the LEC. What is the difference between LEC and First Stand?
Martin "Yike" Sundelin: "It's hard for me to figure out as well, it goes very fast, it's been two days, and I'm for sure disappointed with how I played. I'm not really sure about the reasons, but I don't wanna make excuses, it is what it is yeah..
We're seeing a different side of KC. What explains the difficulties the team is facing?
Yike: The synergy isn’t there like it was in the LEC. We could be more in sync, and I could be more in sync with my laners. Everything we're doing is worse than before. I can't really tell you what the reasons are. We just need to make better plans.
With only two matches left and very little time to adapt, what do you think is necessary to turn things around? Do you still believe qualification is within reach despite TES and HLE standing in your way? (Sheep Esports Question)
Yike: It's always believable to qualify—no one is going to give up. Everyone still believes. The most important thing is to keep our confidence and focus on what we're good at. Always try to have fun and stay confident.
Targamas, KC has faced tough challenges against TL and CFO. Do you think adapting to Fearless’ draft is your biggest struggle, or have there been other, bigger issues?
Raphaël "Targamas" Crabbé: I don't think it's about Fearless. In Europe, we had a pretty good idea of what to do in the later stages of the game, and we were all fine with the format. I think the issue is that we didn’t have much time before coming here—we didn’t practice much, and we’re out of shape. With this schedule, it’s hard to reset and find new ideas because we’re playing every day. We don’t have time to improve on what we’re doing wrong."
Header Photo Credit: Christina Oh/Riot Games