ISMA after GIANTX 's G2 upset: “I still feel the need to prove myself”

ISMA after GIANTX 's G2 upset: “I still feel the need to prove myself”

GIANTX jungler Ismaïl "ISMA" Boualem remains focused on proving himself despite the team's strong run in LEC 2026 Summer.

GIANTX secured a 2-0 week capped by an upset victory over G2 Esports , moving to a 4-3 record and locking in a place in the playoffs.

ISMA discussed his individual performance, the impact of the team's roster changes, and GIANTX 's ambitions heading into the closing stages of the regular season. 

ISMA not satisfied despite victory over G2

Although GIANTX came away with the win, ISMA was critical of his own showing against the reigning LEC champions.

"I'm doing quite great—very happy, even if today wasn't the best series of the year. We won; that's the most important. Neither team played very well, but it's normal—everyone has off days."

Securing a playoff berth brought some relief, but the jungler stressed that GIANTX still have work to do.

With Navi and Fnatic remaining on the schedule, the team are continuing to push for a top-four finish.

Roster changes helped refresh GIANTX

ISMA believes the changes to GIANTX 's lineup were necessary after the previous roster had reached the limit of what it could achieve together.

He nevertheless praised former teammates Lot and Noah while explaining the impact of the new lineup.

"I think so; it was necessary."

According to ISMA, the improved results have not simply come from a temporary honeymoon period. Instead, he believes the current roster's progress has been driven by consistent work.

The atmosphere inside the team has also remained positive, with ISMA highlighting the personalities of Flakked and Jackies as part of a healthy environment.

GIANTX continue chasing a top-four finish

Despite discussions about GIANTX potentially establishing themselves among Europe's strongest teams, ISMA is reluctant to focus too heavily on rankings.

His immediate goal is improving the team's level rather than chasing a particular placement.

A top-four finish would nevertheless put GIANTX one best-of-five away from Worlds and potentially earn the team another opportunity to play in front of its Spanish supporters in Madrid.

For ISMA, however, strong results have not removed his individual motivation.

"I still feel the need to prove myself."