Israel concluded its 2024 IIHF World Championship campaign with a 6-3 victory over Mexico, maintaining a perfect record and ensuring that Hatikva became the most frequently played national anthem beneath the rafters of Sofia’s Winter Sports Palace this week.
The game held little significance for both teams in terms of final standings. Israel had already secured the top spot and promotion to Division IIB next season, while Mexico had successfully avoided relegation, ensuring another year at this level. Nonetheless, being a World Championship game, both teams aimed for a bright finale and cherished memories to take home from Bulgaria.
The first period belonged entirely to Israel. Tournament’s top scorer Mike Levin, returning from a one-game ban, broke the deadlock just 88 seconds into the game. Ori Moss Rendell added another goal in the 14th minute, sending Israel to the locker room with a 2-0 lead at the first intermission.
However, upon resumption, Israel eased off, allowing Mexico to claw their way back into the game. Midway through the second period, the score was leveled, prompting Israel to reclaim the lead before the period’s end, with Yann Raskin ensuring they went into the final frame ahead.
Indeed, Mexico equalized once more with just five minutes remaining. Nevertheless, Israel refused to yield. Guy Aharonovich scored twice, and Itay Bondar sealed the deal six seconds before the final buzzer.
Five games, five wins, all in regulation time, with a combined score of 41-14. Mike Levin earned plaudits as the tournament’s top scorer in both points (17) and goals (9), while 15-year-old Nikita Zitserman topped the “plus-minus” chart at “+13”. Goalie Alon Shpinel boasted the lowest GAA at 2.67. Truly, it was a memorable week for the young generation of Israeli hockey players!