Nisha on performing in front of the crowd at The International 2026: “It’s great to see who you’re playing for.”
Team Liquid midlaner Michał “Nisha” Jankowski, in an interview following their victory over Team Falcons in the first round of the lower bracket at The International 2026, discussed the reasons behind the team’s poor performance at the Esports World Cup 2026 and explained what playing in front of a live audience means to him.
On the change in his performance compared to yesterday
Yesterday, personally, I played heroes I didn’t really want to. My game on Nature’s Prophet wasn’t bad—I could have easily won it if I hadn’t messed up. Today felt comfortable—Earth Spirit, Lina—mind off, just playing, easy.
On our performance at the Esports World Cup 2026
I think we messed up at the EWC, which left me confused because our expectations were a bit higher. We won 3-0 at boot camp, and the qualifiers went well, so we were feeling confident, and now we’re back in the lower bracket, so I don’t know what’s going to happen, to be honest.
On whether playing in front of a live audience means anything to him
Yes, of course—playing in front of a crowd is a whole different game. The energy is great, and it’s great to see who you’re playing for.
Read also: tOfu on Team Liquid at The International 2026: “We have good momentum and team morale right now.”
Team Liquid defeated Team Falcons in the first round of the lower bracket of The International 2026 playoffs. Falcons finished in 7th–8th place and earned $129,507. Right now, Team Spirit is facing off against PARIVISION (TEAM VISION).
Photo: Valve.
