UCAM Baca: “I do think people underestimate us a lot because we don’t have a big fanbase and we’re probably seen as a bunch of randoms.”

UCAM Esports Club have come in swinging in the EU Masters (EUM) 2021 Spring Season, going 3-0 in the first round robin and have their sights set on exiting the group as first seed.

Midlaner João Miguel “Baca” Novais Bigas joins us to talk about UCAM’s somewhat underdog status and how he thinks Group C will play out.

Thank you for accepting this interview. Firstly, congratulations on defeating mousesports and securing a 3-0 in the first round robin. It felt like the game against mouz was very even and it could’ve swung either way, what was the game like from your perspective?

Baca: Hello, thanks for having me! It did feel like the game was pretty even since they were playing well around Adam “LIDER” Ilyasov and his pressure on the side lanes. I think the teamfights were difficult for us when they could get flanks off and take out our backline but overall we played well enough to secure the victory.

.@UCAM_esports remain undefeated in week 1! #EUMasters pic.twitter.com/E5pUpdrVM9

— European Masters (@EUMasters) April 17, 2021

In regards to facing off against LIDER’s infamous champion pool, did you make any special preparations knowing you were going up against him?

Baca: Yes, we did research on his playstyle and champion pool beforehand. I believe this meta is not the best for him right now because drakes are quite important and teams can just group up to make his playstyle harder to execute. Besides, we also banned Irelia.

Fair enough. While UCAM came in as the first seed from Spain, many did not know what to make of your team. In your opinion, do you feel like the underdogs in EUM and are people still underestimating you?

Baca: I do think people underestimate us a lot. This is probably because we don’t have a big fanbase and we are probably seen as a bunch of randoms (laughs). But also, I don’t really mind because being an underdog can be a good thing too. I believe people will start noticing us soon and will know our names in this tournament.

For yourself, what are the good points of being the underdog?

Baca: Personally, in a way there is less pressure for the underdog team and the motivation to beat the ‘big boys’ is always something I get enthusiastic about.

With Group C having you and Illuminar Gaming in the lead right now, tell us more about what you think of the teams in the group now that you’ve played them. What do you expect to happen on Day 7 and which teams are making it out?

Baca: I think our group is far from easy and on the day where everyone plays each other in a single day, anything can happen. I believe it will come down to UCAM, Illuminar and mousesports to battle for the spots in Knockouts, but I do expect mousesports to exit the group stage.

The Standings after Week 1 of the #EUMasters Group Stage, we’ll be back on Tuesday! pic.twitter.com/Dt9uFhhKJU

— European Masters (@EUMasters) April 17, 2021

Other than yourselves, Cream Real Betis and G2 Arctic seem to be struggling a bit and some are questioning the strength of the SuperLiga. What do you make of their current positions and do you think they will bounce back?

Baca: Both teams were good back in LVP SuperLiga. I believe G2 are not showing their real level at the moment and if they can turn it around they will definitely be a strong contender in EUM. Betis is in a hard group and it’s more or less going as expected. With this said, I expect that they will still give a good fight and take some wins there.

Previously, I’ve spoken to your teammates Hadess and Plasma, and their expectation is to first make it out of groups. Since this is your first EUM run, what are your personal goals and expectations from this tournament?

Baca: Honestly, I feel the same. As I mentioned before, anything can happen on the packed schedule of Day 7, so we are fully focused on making out of groups first. Since it is my EUM debut, I would love to play in the finals and show up in that high pressure moment!

Well, I hope you get there! Assuming UCAM does make it to the Knockout stage, are there any teams or players in particular you are looking forward to facing?

Baca: I’m definitely looking forward to facing Karmine Corp from the LFL, but not really against any player specifically.

KCORP’S ON FIRE, YOUR BACKLINE IS TERRIFIED pic.twitter.com/5ORECNrKyd

— Karmine Corp (@KarmineCorp) April 14, 2021

Before we end, since you’re from Portugal, any quick thoughts on the LPLOL’s run this EUM? Do you think we will see a team like White Dragons make the Main Event in the near future?

Baca: This is a tough question. Well, it is possible but… unfortunately the level they compete at is not great, which makes the practice they get not as effective when compared to other regions. I do think the White Dragons were a good team, and probably the best team Portugal has sent compared to previous years.

That concludes the interview, any closing thoughts to wrap it up?

Baca: I want to say thanks to all the people that have supported us. We are enjoying this tournament a lot thus far and we will keep working to be at our best level possible. Obrigado!

Thank you and good luck, Baca!

Also read:

Join the discussion on social media or our Discord!

You can also help improve our website by submitting direct feedback!

Image credit: UCAM Esports Club