At MSI 2023, we took some time to speak to Steal who has been a core to DFM’s MSI wins about the format, opponents and the title of being the ‘Kings of Chaos’
For DFM, kicking off the first day of MSI, there were lots of expectations for the team to perform. But after a tricky game one, DFM had hit back for game two, and all had been going well under the new best-of-three format. But after a tech pause, and the game going past DFM's typical finish time, they lost in a crushing defeat to PSG Talon. Game two had been theirs to lose and unfortunately, it did end in a loss.
After his first stage match at MSI 2023, Esports GG caught up with Mun 'Steal' Geon-Yeong and chatted with him about MSI, his aspirations, and the pressure of being on the international stage. Also his favorite thing about MSI being hosted in London - hint his answer is quoted.
Nia Quinn: You’ve been on the MSI stage before, this is your third MSI – what lessons have you learned from the previous MSI and what does this make you want to bring to MSI this time?
Mun 'Steal' Geon-Yeong: Whenever I get to play internationally I try to focus on not feeling nervous on stage and being able to stay focused until the very end. but as you could see in the second game, we were not able to do this as we struggled in this [PSG Talon vs DFM] matchup.
Do you feel pressure to ensure DFM does well to prove how strong DFM can be on the international stage?
DFM Steal: I mean there is pressure but I think it comes more from people having an expectation of us and this expectation means I just try to enjoy it. But I am sorry we were not able to meet up to the expectation this time
As the team that has been to international events the most out of the minor regions, do you feel pressure to do well to show that the minor regions can compete and can do well?
DFM Steal: Well I've never really thought of it like that, to be honest, but I think it is a compliment and a nice thing to have been a team who has been to say many international events but again I had never really thought of it like that.
Which team are you excited to face and why?
DFM Steal: I mean right now no one really stands out hugely, but that's because we need to focus on our own performance and ensure we are at a high standard that we are capable of. So for now at least, no one comes to mind.
You’ve previously played in Korea and Europe, what it is about DFM that makes you want to stay with Japan over Korea and Europe?
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DFM Steal: To be completely honest, DFM just has such a joyful and fun environment and so I'm going to stay with them because of this
How does the title of 'Kings of Chaos' feel to be known as for you? Do you like the name for the international stage?
DFM Steal: I think it's a funny nickname and it's because we have been pulling off some crazy and unexpected plays so yeah I like it
Do tech pauses make the game harder to close out – you were ahead before the pause but the pause seemed to throw you off your game?
DFM Steal: I think it was more our own late game and struggles to focus well / keep our teamwork running smooth, that made it hard to finish the match rather than the tech pause - and for those reasons, it's something we really need to work on
This is DFM's 8th appearance at an international event and you’ve been to six international tournaments with the team, how do your nerves stack up this time around?
DFM Steal: In the beginning I mean, I was really nervous and I do still get nervous but I try my best to kind of clear my mind but you know it can still make me jittery
Did you find the best of three application to this year’s MSI and the game helped improve your play? For example were you able to try more things and get a better grasp of the game?
DFM Steal: Well the previous format of best of ones where we got to play lots of teams was really fun but I prefer this format more because you can show your preparation, your picks, and more, and being able to show preparation is important so I prefer best of threes.
What’s your favorite thing about MSI being hosted in London this year?
DFM Steal: So on our team, we all heard about London / UK food but it was way above my expectations and really good which I really enjoyed. And the same for the weather too, it was sunny lots even though today it is cloudy all day. I really like it here!
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