2026 World Championship: Ukraine's Opening Game
Ukraine's national hockey team kicked off the 2026 IIHF World Championship in Division IA with a narrow 2-3 defeat against Poland. The match was a tightly contested battle, with both sides displaying strong performances throughout.
The first period ended in a 1-1 stalemate. Poland struck first at 12:56, with Chmielewski finding the net off assists from Bilash and Zygmunt. Ukraine responded swiftly, capitalizing on a power play at 17:50 when Danylo Trakht scored, aided by Fadieiev and Vorona. In the second period, Poland regained the lead as Wronka converted a power-play opportunity at 28:49. The third period remained intense, and at 42:38, Denyskin leveled the score to 2-2 with assists from Merezhko and Ratushny. However, with just over six minutes remaining in regulation, Krężołek delivered the game-winner for Poland at 53:26.
Standings and Upcoming Matches
Following the first round, Ukraine sits in fifth place with zero points and a goal differential of 2:3. The current standings are as follows:
- 1. Kazakhstan – 3 points (1 match), 4:1 goal differential
- 2. France – 3 points (1 match), 4:3
- 3. Poland – 3 points (1 match), 3:2
- 4. Japan – 0 points (1 match), 3:4
- 5. Ukraine – 0 points (1 match), 2:3
- 6. Lithuania – 0 points (1 match), 1:4
Ukraine's next match is scheduled for May 3 at 17:00 against Lithuania. Head coach Dmytro Khrystych is counting on improved results in the upcoming games. Notably, in last year's meeting between Ukraine and Poland, Ukraine secured a 4-2 victory, but this time they were unable to replicate that success.
The start of the 2026 World Championship has proven challenging for Ukraine, as a team with high ambitions suffered a setback in its opening game.
Dropping points in the first match could complicate the team's path forward, given the growing competition in Division IA. The upcoming clash with Lithuania will be a critical juncture for Ukraine, as securing a win would significantly boost their chances of advancing in the tournament.
Despite the setback for the senior team, Ukraine's U18 squad recently showcased their strength by decisively defeating Poland, ensuring their place in Division IA. This victory highlights the potential of Ukraine's hockey programs and serves as a contrast to the challenges faced by the national team in their opening match. For a closer look at how the U18 team triumphed, read more about their impressive performance against Poland.