HEROIC lost 0–2 to Aurora in the Esports World Cup 2025 quarterfinals and finished the event in the top eight. The match marked Andrey tN1R Tatarinovich’s final appearance for HEROIC. After the series, gridge spoke with the rifler about the reasons behind the defeat, Alkaren’s adaptation, and the experience he gained while competing in an international roster.
What do you think went wrong on the first map? It was your pick, but you could hardly find your game in the opening half.
Honestly, even for us it remained a mystery after the first map. We briefly discussed how we felt, but nobody really understood what had happened.
— tN1R
There may have been some nerves. I do not think it was because we attached any special significance to the match—it was probably more connected to the atmosphere itself.
Playing in front of an arena crowd feels a little different for many of the guys.
On the second map, everyone settled in and started enjoying both the arena and the fans. We became competitive and came close to winning, but three important clutches at the end decided the series.
What can you say about Alkaren? Do you think he can establish himself in the team?
I think he can. He has good potential, and he fits this structure properly.
— tN1R
He has enough initiative and learns very quickly.
I think everything will be fine for him. He just needs some time to show his full potential.
He is still going through an adaptation period. I know from my own experience that playing in an international roster is difficult.
This was your final tournament with HEROIC. How do you look back on your time with the team and the organization?
