TL LohaN reflected on the team's performance, roster development, and Portuguese representation in VALORANT.
Ivo “LohaN” Albino has been leading Team Liquid (TL) since the end of 2024. At the VCT EMEA 2026: Stage 1, the team arrived in strong form, securing two consecutive victories against Karmine Corp and Team Heretics.
In an interview with esports.gg, LohaN discussed the team’s preparation and evolution since the start of the season, his work alongside yaotziN in the coaching staff, and how to approach matches against opponents undergoing recent roster changes. He also shared his thoughts on Portuguese representation in VALORANT, highlighting the challenges faced by players and coaches in reaching Tier 1 and achieving success.
Team Liquid kicks off Stage 1 with a strong performance
Team Liquid began VCT EMEA 2026: Stage 1 confidently, delivering two consecutive victories while maintaining a perfect map record. Head coach LohaN described the series against Team Heretics as a positive one overall, despite acknowledging several mistakes and areas the team needs to improve moving forward.
“I was not mad about purp0 missing shots in the last map because that happens to everyone,” he said. “But I was mad about all the mistakes we were making and the fact that we were slowly losing control of the game. We managed to get back on track, but we cannot repeat those errors.”
For Stage 1, Team Liquid brought back valuable lessons from the international stage, even though their run was short. “We implemented a different playstyle, more balanced between being aggressive and knowing when to step back and reset,” the head coach explained. “That has been great for us, and I think the team is finding its path, with the results reflecting that growth.”
At the same time, TL LohaN believes their strategy became too one-dimensional at times, allowing opponents to punish them for it. “We brought many good lessons from the international stage, and so far it’s working well for us,” he added.
How to prepare against a new roster
Team Heretics introduced a fresh addition to their roster in the series against Team Liquid, with Martynas “Koshmaras” Namikas making his Tier 1 debut. However, the change did not alter the team’s strategy. For coach LohaN, regardless of the opponent, the expectation remains to win. “We knew they were less prepared than us, simply because they changed a player two days ago, but we didn’t change anything in our preparation,” he said.
During the game, moments of surprise were unavoidable, especially with a new player in the lineup. “We started to lose control of the game. We should always focus on ourselves. No matter who is on the other side, we need to play our game and make adjustments if necessary,” he added.
TL LohaN breaks down the team’s progress over the season
“They’re all doing an excellent job. I just love the atmosphere they bring, I love all the guys on the team, and they work so hard,” LohaN commented. “There are no egos, no friction. They all have a good relationship.”
For the coach, all the team members get along and are very open-minded. “They listen when I point out their mistakes and are very open-minded and mature. They recognize when things don’t go well and adapt accordingly. Those are their best characteristics. I’m extremely happy with everyone’s work.”
However, if the coach had to highlight one player, he would pick purp0. “We’re able to work really well with him. He had some issues while he was playing for GIANTX, went back to Tier 2, and now he is playing so well,” he said. “We know exactly how to work with him and how to bring his potential to the top.”
Working with yaotziN
As for his coaching partnership with Daniel “yaotziN” Roczniak, TL LohaN believes their dynamic has been very strong. “The main reason I wanted to work with Daniel was that he sees the game differently than I do, whether it’s compositions, the meta, or how to handle certain situations,” he said. “Having someone who challenges you mentally and brings fresh ideas is invaluable. I feel like this year we’re much more on the same page.”
The coach describes yaotziN as one of the hardest-working people he has ever known. “He works countless hours. When the day is over, he goes back to the office and stays there until 3 or 4 a.m. to review everything,” LohaN said with a laugh. “He’s a perfectionist. I’m not as much, but I love working with him. He understands exactly what we could have done differently in some situations. I like that part of him.”
TL LohaN shares his view on Portuguese representation in VALORANT
There are not many Portuguese players or coaches competing at the Tier 1 level. However, there was a recent milestone with the announcement of Miguel “Bati” Batista joining the coaching staff of LOUD as an assistant coach. Due to visa issues affecting one of the team’s newest players, he was forced to step up and make his Tier 1 debut, helping the Brazilian squad secure a victory.
“Doors are being opened not only to Portuguese talent, but also to the overall European Tier 2. They have been suffering a lot, and it’s difficult for the Portuguese to have opportunities to reach Tier 1,” LohaN comments. “I’m very happy with this news, and it can mean more doors open to our talent. I’m happy with Bati. I’ve always had a lot of respect for him. He has a good reading of the game, and I think he will do a good job as an assistant coach.”
Team Liquid returns to the stage on April 17 to play against FUT Esports. They will then face Natus Vincere and Gentle Mates.
Note: This article was originally written in Portuguese and translated into English, with slight adaptations made for clarity.