Virtus.pro`s CS2 coach, Ivan “F_1N” Kochugov, shared his thoughts on the team`s performance at PGL Astana 2025. He stated that the outcome was unsatisfactory, as the team failed to achieve even their minimum goal of advancing from the group stage. F_1N made these comments in a vlog posted on the team`s official YouTube channel.
“The result is disgusting,” F_1N remarked. “We planned to at least get out of the group. We didn`t get out of the group. That is, the minimum result was not achieved. Now I have experience from official matches and I have a rough idea of what needs to be discussed, what needs to be improved, so to speak. Training initially didn`t show the full scale and the real picture.”
When asked about the main issues, F_1N highlighted communication, particularly among the younger players, as a key area requiring significant work. He also pointed out a decline in “in-the-moment presence” or focus during official matches. Looking ahead to the Major, he stressed the need for singular dedication to the game: “Everything else we will try to remove, so to speak. There will be no time for anything except the game. Because even some basic things are not ingrained.”
F_1N also commented on the behavior of the younger players, noting their inhibition and lack of confidence. He clarified that this isn`t due to the team`s atmosphere but rather requires internal self-improvement.
Regarding speculation about whether electroNic`s emotionality affected the younger players, F_1N responded that Denis was “minimally emotional” during this specific tournament. He added, “I would say that [his emotionality] doesn`t influence [them], because the guys themselves are somewhat inhibited, unsure. They need to work on themselves, develop. At times it seemed like different people sat down to play. Despite the fact that no one was being rough on anyone, no one was shouting at anyone. We just need to work further.”
He concluded that PGL Astana 2025 served as an “intermediate check,” effectively exposing all the problems and clearly indicating where more focus is needed. F_1N expressed optimism, stating, “I think we will be able to fix the game.”
In their decisive final group stage match at PGL Astana 2025, Virtus.pro faced MIBR with a playoff spot on the line. Denis “electroNic” Sharipov`s squad lost the series 1:2 and was consequently eliminated from the championship.
PGL Astana 2025 took place from May 10 to 18 in Kazakhstan, featuring a total prize pool of $625,000.