This week the main Counter-Strike team will have an excellent opportunity to put the failed qualification for the Paris Major 2023 behind them when we battle for glory in the online tournament Brazy Party 2023.
On Thursday, April 27, we will go head-to-head with GamerLegion in our first match in a best-of-three GSL group stage.
It will also be the first time the promising young talent Alexander "Altekz" Givskov will be a part of the squad.
Altekz has already distinguished himself as a prominent figure and an essential member of our talent line-up, and now he has been given a chance to prove his worth on the big stage.
"I'm looking forward to getting on the server, and I hope to give back to the many Astralis fans who have sent messages of support. It would be great to start with a good performance and a win," - Altekz
Astralis coach Peter "casle" Ardenskjold is looking forward to seeing his new player in action, and he has no doubt that the talented 19-year-old rifler will make his mark, even though the team will have to defeat some of the best players in the world of esports if they are to end up with a tournament victory.
Astralis coach Peter "casle" Ardenskjold:
- I have known Alex since my time on the talent team and understand what he brings. Playing with new teammates at a higher level is always different, but he has taken on the task with humility and a huge desire to show what he can do. He is undoubtedly one of the most exciting talents on the field right now, and we have already seen glimpses of that in training, so I am, of course looking forward to seeing him in action with the others.
- There are several things to get used to on a new team, but he knows the system for the most part and can play freely and without much pressure. He is sharp in duels, which can also be seen in his stats, and if he can transfer some of that to the matches, we can look forward to seeing him on the server.
Altekz looks forward to showcasing his skillset and competing at the highest level of Counter-Strike.
Altekz, sent to the first team last week, has had a short time adapting to playing with his new team members while trying to make a lasting impression in the training sessions.
Alexander "Altekz" Givskov:
- I've met the players before, and I know casle well, but of course, I was excited to train with them for the first time. However, it went quickly and felt natural once we were on the server. The players have welcomed me very well, and I know everyone in the organization, so it's mostly the in-game stuff that I must get used to. There are many new things I have to remember, such as the callouts being a bit different, but I'm learning everything quickly enough.
- First and foremost, I must be myself and help the team as much as possible. Everyone says there's no pressure and more matches will come, but I want to show what I'm capable of, so I'm excited about my first game.