Nuclear TigeRES defeated SPARTA 2–1 and advanced to the playoffs of WINLINE MPKBK CIS LAN Season 5. After the match, CS2NEWS spoke with Ilya flouzer Selifonov about his first impressions of the LAN in St. Petersburg, the team’s goals, working with Polt, and interest from other organizations.

Congratulations on reaching the playoffs. What are your impressions of the LAN in St. Petersburg and of the tournament and the city overall?

Thank you. Overall, I liked the tournament, and I still do. I enjoy playing here as well, and everything is fine with the computers.
At first, I was not feeling very well—I got a little sick, so it was difficult to play. But we won as a team, so everything is fine.

— flouzer

The match against SPARTA was very close, especially the first map. What are your expectations for the tournament, and how would you assess the team’s current form?

I really want to win this tournament. I want to win very badly. Even if we do not manage to win, I would at least like to reach the final.

— flouzer

You have been working with Vadim Polt for around two months. Before him, the team was coached by kebакин. What can you tell us about Vadim? What has he changed in your stratbook, and what impact has he brought with his experience, including his time with INSILIO?

I really enjoy working with Vadim. He brought new tactics, a new feeling, and new energy to the team.
We added new setups and new rounds. All of that complemented what we already had. We are in good form now, and I would say we are playing well.

— flouzer

You are a young player whom other teams are watching and may be interested in. Does that create any pressure because people may expect you to eventually reach the level of players such as donk or kyousuke? Or do you not pay attention to it and simply play for enjoyment while trying to show your best Counter-Strike?