Cloud9 VALORANT Practices with qpert Ahead of VCT Americas LCQ
Cloud9’s VALORANT team has been practicing with their sixth player, Mateja “qpert” Mijović, in place of in-game leader Dylan “runi” Cadem. This lineup change was made after C9’s elimination from VCT Americas playoffs in May. According to analyst and former coach Sean Gares, C9 decided to keep runi in the lineup for the LCQ after playing with qpert in scrims.
Sean Gares revealed this information in his latest video, uploaded on July 22, before C9’s elimination from the LCQ by Leviatán. While Sean couldn’t offer more insight into the team’s decision, he expressed concern about the impact it may have on the team’s mindset. He mentioned this in a video with esports reporter Rod “Slasher” Breslau.
Replacing the in-game leader before such an important event is a significant move. Additionally, qpert hasn’t played an official VALORANT match since January, before joining C9 as their sixth player.
Runi has been C9’s IGL since March, following the removals of yay and vanity. Many credited runi as one of the main reasons for C9’s success in the regular season of VCT Americas, where they finished second behind LOUD.
However, the team faltered in the VCT Americas playoffs in May and failed to qualify for VCT Masters Tokyo in June, ultimately needing to attend the LCQ for VALORANT Champions.
The team’s mental aspect, as mentioned by Sean Gares, could partially explain C9’s loss to Leviatán on July 22 and their subsequent elimination from the LCQ. Despite leading the series 2-0, C9 was completely shut down in the next three maps, resulting in a historic reverse sweep.
Hopefully, there will be further statements from C9 players and coach Matthew “mCe” Elmore regarding their performance in the LCQ. It seems likely that the organization will make changes for VCT 2024.