After their hard-fought victory against Apeks in Week 3 of the VCT EMEA Stage 2 on Thursday, July 31, Team Liquid's Georgio “Keiko” Sanassy shares insights on the team’s mindset in clutch moments, adapting to meta shifts, and his personal growth since joining. This in-depth conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at a player striving for excellence both on and off stage, from tactical adjustments to the emotional weight of international competitions.

How do you feel after winning against Apeks, and how did you manage to turn the match around after losing the second map?

Georgio “Keiko” Sanassy: "I believe we initially underestimated our opponents a bit. That lack of respect showed in the way we played, giving them favorable duels and not really functioning as a cohesive unit. Each of us needed to step up individually, and once we realized we could actually lose the map if we kept trolling, we came together, made a plan, and executed it. That shift in mindset was what turned things around for us.

You struggled somewhat on Ascent. After losing several rounds, what mindset did you adopt to recover and eventually win the first map? What plan did you have before the third map that allowed you to dominate?

Keiko: I think Lotus, the third map, felt more comfortable for us, it's one we’re naturally more confident on. To be honest, my own performance on the first two maps wasn’t great, especially on Omen. It's clear I need to improve individually on that agent. That said, beyond just my play, we all recognized the need to make adjustments heading into next week. So the plan was really about refocusing, relying on our strengths, and approaching the third map with clarity.

How has your integration into Team Liquid been since joining, and how has your role evolved as you’ve settled into the roster?

Keiko: This year feels much more fluid compared to last year. While I wouldn’t say I have more “responsibility” per se, I’ve definitely taken on more initiative, giving direction, making calls, and being granted more freedom in my role. I’m allowed to follow my instincts, and the team supports me in that, which I really appreciate. I've also become more vocal in mid-rounds, helping with adjustments and decision-making. It's been a rewarding transition.

The VALORANT meta shifts frequently. How do you personally prepare for new agent roles like Smoker or Sentinel, and how does the team adapt its playstyle to stay competitive?

Keiko: I’ve always been an aggressive player. I enjoy making plays and being the one to create impact. So playing Duelist feels natural to me. Smokes, on the other hand, require more nuance. It’s harder to find impactful moments because you don’t want to be a liability with poor utility usage. I’m still trying to find that balance, playing proactively even in support roles like Smoker or Sentinel without compromising the team.

What are Team Liquid’s main objectives for this stage of the season, and what are you and your teammates striving to accomplish together in the coming months?

Keiko: I think this stage has helped us identify our strengths. The roster changes, especially bringing in Trexx, have added a lot. He brings fresh ideas and a new dynamic to our team. Our goal is to keep improving, make it to Paris, get through the group stage, and ultimately win. We believe we have the firepower and the roster to make that happen.

Team Liquid recently revamped its roster by adding Nikita "Trexx" Cherednichenko. How have these changes affected team dynamics, and how have you worked to build synergy with the new lineup?

Keiko: Trexx is a very composed and intelligent player. He brings great ideas and has an excellent impact and utility usage. His playstyle is a bit different from the rest of us. We're generally more aggressive and like to get in our opponents' faces. So we've been working to fit him into our playstyle. It’s been a challenge, but also a significant upgrade for us overall.

As one of Team Liquid’s duelists, how do you coordinate with your IGL and the team to ensure your role aligns with the broader strategy?

Keiko: Nats really trusts me. If I make a call, he usually says, “Let’s go for it.” That level of trust gives me a lot of freedom. When I feel like making a play, the team often rallies around that idea. Compared to last year, I feel much more confident in my Duelist role. I’m a bit of a selfish player by nature, I want to follow my instincts, and now I’m in an environment where that’s encouraged and supported.

Outside of official matches, what does your practice routine look like? Are there specific methods you follow to maintain such a high level of in-game impact?

Keiko: I don’t play ranked much anymore. Instead, I focus heavily on self-review. I record scrim VODs, take notes, and do a lot of Deathmatch. I try to improve every single day and make sure I’m not just going through the motions. Each practice session has a purpose. I don’t want to waste time without making progress.

Where do you see your career heading in the next year or two? Are there specific achievements or personal milestones you're aiming for?

Keiko: I’m still figuring that out. Of course, I want to win something major, but more importantly, I want to maintain the level I’m currently playing at. Last year, I wasn’t performing like I am now. So my focus is on understanding why things are clicking for me right now and finding ways to replicate that consistently moving forward.

Are there any players or teams you look up to or draw inspiration from, in terms of playstyle or mindset?

Keiko: I’d say Gen.G Karon is my GOAT, no doubt. I watch a lot of his VODs, especially when I’m learning Smokes. His style really aligns with mine. I try to take inspiration from the way he plays and adapt it to my own approach."