After the conclusion of B8’s match at the Esports World Cup 2026, we spoke with Andrii “npl” Kukharskyi about the team’s performance at the tournament, the problems with consistency and confidence in the young roster, the upcoming peak of their form, their goals for the end of the year, and the incredible support of Ukrainian fans in Paris.
If we go back to the second map, Mirage, there, in principle, it felt like it was quite close... the comeback was felt. What, in your opinion, was still missing?
We didn’t finish our situations on the T-side. Well, we started very well, we prepared the first two buys. The first two buys went very well, but we couldn’t finish the post-plants... and then the lost force on CT, when we were. Well, that was probably the key thing.
Okay. How do you generally evaluate... let’s put it this way, this current B8 roster? Because it feels like you’re just missing a little something to go further. What are you still missing for now?
I think we’re simply missing confidence plus consistency, because we can play one match very well, and in the second match someone starts getting nervous, because of that someone else starts getting nervous too and... well, not exactly nervous, but worrying. And because of all this, everything falls apart. Well, because we’re young.
So, is it a matter of time and experience?
I think so.
When do you think B8’s peak form with this roster will come? Do you expect to reach your maximum closer to the end of the year, or do you not tie it to a specific period?
Peak, you mean...?
When you’ll be playing, you’ll be satisfied, your teammates will be satisfied. Let’s say you’re currently stopping a little below that level, then you’ll make it to a final. When could that happen?
I think there is no specific peak for a team, because you always want to develop, plus other teams are always developing as well, and you kind of catch up with each other a little bit. And there will always be progress. But if we’re talking about the peak this year, then I think it’s still to come, and we still have a lot to show.
How do you evaluate this tournament? Is this the plan you fulfilled, exceeded, or underperformed?
I think it’s just a normal result. Not good, not bad, just normal.
And what strategic goals have you set for yourselves this year?
Of course, everyone wants to win their first Tier-1 tournament, but it’s difficult to do that because the competition is very high right now. Plus, there are various nuances. But by the end of the year, we want to be in the top 10 of the Valve ranking, establish ourselves there, and consistently make the playoffs of Tier-1 tournaments with this roster.
How important was it for you to play in Paris today? I don’t know if you watched NaVi’s game. A lot of Ukrainian fans came in, basically, who support B8 and Ukrainian teams. How was it for you to play? Even though it was a small arena, how was it to play in front of Ukrainian fans?
It was really cool and very pleasant that so many Ukrainians... Ukrainian people came to support us. I already said in another interview that this was probably the first time we were supported so strongly. I even felt that we were supported more strongly than Spirit, although obviously Spirit has a bigger fan base, but it was great.
Did that surprise you?
It surprised me and it was very pleasant.
What would you like to say to B8 fans from all over the world?
As always, thank you everyone for your support. When I say “thank you everyone for your support,” it sounds kind of banal, but in reality we really feel it very strongly. Really, thank you everyone for your support!
Good luck!
Thank you!
For Ukrainian teams, the support from the stands is much more than just noise during a match. This was especially noticeable in Paris: Ukrainian fans created an incredible atmosphere for B8 and showed the team that they are being followed and supported far beyond Ukraine.
So wherever our teams play — on a home stage or at a major international event — support Ukrainian esports and our guys. Your support really means a lot to them.
Thank you to Andrii “npl” Kukharskyi for the sincere conversation and to B8 for the opportunity to speak with the player after the match. We wish the team success in their upcoming tournaments, consistency, and a speedy climb to the level Andrii “npl” Kukharskyi is talking about. See you at the next matches!
As a reminder, R1nkle on adapting to the new roster, the pressure of a big brand, and preparation for the Major.
