BetBoom coach Fierce: ‘We’re on the same page’ after Major run

BetBoom advanced to the IEM Cologne Major playoffs with a 2-0 win over FUT in the 2-2 pool, earning a spot at the LANXESS arena despite using two stand-ins during the event. The lineup included substitute player FL4MUS.

Artem “Fierce” Ivanov, 36, who joined BetBoom in January, described the result as unexpected given recent roster instability. He credited intensive practice, detailed review sessions and a simplified tactical approach for helping the team adapt quickly. “Today, it’s pretty simple; we are on the same page,” Ivanov said.

Ivanov emphasized work on communication and the mental side of matches, urging players to focus on beating opponents rather than avoiding mistakes. He described moments in practice and matches when voice comms grew chaotic and said he uses clear signals to restore order, including playing a horn sound to indicate silence.

The coach discussed how he manages contrasting personalities on the roster. He described Boombl4 as very experienced and called Magnojez young but talented and hardworking who understands the team’s direction. Ivanov recalled early resistance to his methods, saying players often argued in the first two months, and that he can be strict when needed while remaining mostly understanding.

Roster decisions remain pending because of visa uncertainty for some substitutes. Ivanov said the team will postpone permanent roster choices until after the upcoming XSE tournament in China, scheduled in about a month.

BetBoom will open the Major playoffs against Aurora at the LANXESS arena. Ivanov said the squad will focus on immediate preparation, including practicing maps it has not yet used in Cologne. He noted the Cologne playoffs will be his first time coaching at an arena event and added, with a smile, that the group has joked about expanding roster flexibility in future seasons.

BetBoom’s progress to the playoff stage came while the team coped with substitute players and unsettled lineups. Ivanov framed the run as the result of concentrated training, clearer communication and growing buy-in from the roster.