The Blue Wall reigns supreme and defeats CTBC Flying Oyster with a 3-2 score, narrowly avoiding a reverse sweep and advancing to the First Stand 2025 Grand Finals. A run that can be considered a miracle, Karmine Corp now prepares for their ultimate match tomorrow in South Korea. In a press conference, support Raphaël "Targamas" Crabbé and top laner Kim "Canna" Chang-dong discussed the recent match.
Targamas, how did you adapt after the rough start to the tournament?
Raphaël "Targamas" Crabbé:
"I think we just didn’t show up for the first two days. We also drafted differently from the style we like.
In the games against Top Esports, we played like it was all or nothing. Our chances of making it to semis were so slim that, in my opinion, we had no pressure. With that mindset, we built good momentum—especially
with that win against HLE. We found the recipe to win again.
You played proactivealy today, despite some messy moments. Was confidence the key factor?
Targamas: For sure. For me, this tournament, I feel like I’ve been playing with no pressure. Compared to my last time with G2, I was so stressed that I didn’t want to do anything. I feel even better and more comfortable than when I play solo queue. It makes a huge difference for the team.
After a rough start, you made an incredible run to the grand finals. Do you think KC is a team to be feared?
Targamas: For sure. We didn’t show up earlier in the tournament, and we were really lucky to make it to the semifinals. Two days ago, when we lost against HLE, I thought our tournament was over—at least I did. I was feeling really down. But then
CFO beat TES, and it’s been such a rollercoaster. I hope we can make it and win the finals now.
With this win, you’re part of one of the first European rosters to reach an international final without Caps—something only Fnatic in Season 1 and G2 at MSI 2017 have done. You’ve played with Caps before, and for a decade, he’s defined European League of Legends. How does it feel to make history today?
Targamas: I don’t have the words for now. I’m just looking forward to playing the finals tomorrow. This tournament, of course, we made it to the finals, but there are only five teams. It was still hard, but easier than Worlds. We have a long way to go to match Caps’ legacy. But as I said at the start of the year, at KC, we want to start a new era for Europe and the LEC. So far,
it’s been a pretty good beginning to the year. Do you have a message for Caps and G2?
Targamas: I hope you come back stronger for Spring Split. Together with G2, we can basically bring Europe back from the dead. We’ve been underperforming for the past few years. This will be a good boost for all the teams—we can be a strong region.
Canna, what was the pivotal moment behind the team's turnaround? Did you have some talks after your second loss, or did the resurgence happen organically?
Kim "Canna" Chang-dong: Our original plan was obviously to win the first two matches, but when that became impossible and we couldn't reach our goal, we definitely took the time to have long discussions and feedback sessions. This helped us change our approach, especially in drafting.
You got revenge against CFO. Can you share more about how you prepared?
Canna: The preparation process wasn’t anything special or different. We just did what we always practiced. We worked on our draft, as I said earlier. We didn’t have a great showing in the first two days, but we really regained our confidence after day 3 and got our form back.
You’ve qualified for the finals. Who do you see as your opponent? What’s your prediction for HLE vs TES?
Canna: I think HLE will make it out. Since it’s a BO5, there might be some variance, but I predict 3-1 for HLE.
Targamas: I also think 3-1 for HLE. TES has underperformed a lot, but in a BO5, maybe they can show a better side. Still, I think HLE has shown a better face.
What will you do differently to beat HLE next time if you face them?
Targamas: I have a pretty good idea of how they play the game. It’s definitely hard to replicate or punish because they’re very good players, but I have a good idea of how to beat them. We’ll see if we can execute our plan.
Canna: HLE has 5 of the most skilled and talented players. Individually, I don’t think I can pinpoint a weakness among them that stands out. We just have to focus on ourselves and be the best players we can be. Anyone can make mistakes, and the side that capitalizes on those mistakes will win."
Header Photo Credit: Christina Oh/Riot Games
