Photo: IIHF / Joan Reyes
Team Israel experienced its most significant setback at the 2024 U18 World Championship against Spain. The hosts, having competed in a higher division last season, were determined to secure a swift return to dominance on their home ice. It was evident from the outset that they would come out strong, which they did. Despite our team’s brave efforts, maintaining a respectable 2-0 scoreline at the first intermission, they eventually succumbed to the pressure, suffering an 11-1 defeat. At least, in the 48th minute, Vasili Lysov ensured they wouldn’t depart the ice without a goal to their credit.
With just one game day remaining, the Blue-and-Whites have their final opportunity to avoid relegation and secure their place in Division IIB for the next season. On Saturday, they will face opponents from Chinese Taipei, who currently sit fifth in the table with two points from today’s 5-4 overtime victory against Australia. This means that a regulation-time win would fulfill Evgeni Kozhevnikov’s team’s ultimate goal. It’s a winner-takes-all scenario, plain and simple.
Our final game at the Polisportiu in Puigcerda begins at 1300 local time (1400 in Israel).