G2 secured their playoff spot at the IEM Cologne Major following a demanding series against Natus Vincere. Speaking on the media day ahead of the Lanxess Arena matches, Matúš “matys” Šimko discussed the mental endurance required to close out the games. While acknowledging the collective effort of the roster, he singled out his teammate Nikita “HeavyGod” Martynenko as a primary driving force behind the team’s current form.
High praise for the G2 anchor
HeavyGod plays the anchor roles for G2, where he is frequently left alone to defend a bombsite. Operating within this demanding system, he consistently delivers high mechanical skill and sharp decision making. When asked to evaluate his teammate, matys was direct in his assessment.
By far the best in the world. I think this fully describes him, like he is amazing when it comes to individual skill, communication, understanding of the game,” matys stated.
He emphasized that HeavyGod’s ability to remain composed during clutch situations, combined with a highly positive attitude, brings immense value to the entire G2 lineup on and off the server.
HeavyGod is currently the fourth-highest-rated player in Cologne with a stunning 1.34 rating, while all other G2 players are rated below 1.00 at the Major.
Reflecting on a fast year in Counter-Strike
Approaching the one year mark since joining the organization, matys recognizes the relentless pace of the competitive calendar. The journey with G2 has involved structural challenges and distinct successes, but reaching the playoffs in Cologne represents a clear step forward.
Even if it’s one year, but I feel like it’s been 45 years to be honest already,” he explained. “At the same time it goes so fast like there is almost no time to look behind you know you just need to move on.
Matys remains objective about his own statistical output. Recognizing that his individual rating over the last three events has been lower than his standard, he focuses strictly on internal adjustments rather than external pressure.
I’m just trying to look at things that I can fix and if I cannot fix them is something that I cannot control I just don’t care that much to be honest,” he said.
Breaking the streak against Team Spirit
G2 now prepares to face Team Spirit in the quarterfinals. Team Spirit has won the last three encounters between the two rosters, a statistic matys intends to correct.
They beat us three times in a row. I think this is the time we’re going to beat them to be honest,” matys stated. “We will go to the game with more balls maybe compared to what happened before.
The game plan involves aggressive map control and self-assurance. He stressed that G2 cannot afford to give Team Spirit excess respect, regardless of the star players on the opposing side. Stepping onto the stage at the Lanxess Arena is a long-term goal realized for matys, who recalls watching Ninjas in Pyjamas win the Cologne event in 2014. Now, he and the rest of G2 have the opportunity to prove their standing on the main stage.
