Ukraine Secures Victory Over Belgium at 2026 World Championship
Head coach Yevhen Alipov of Ukraine's women's national hockey team has commented on his team's win against Belgium at the 2026 World Championship. The match, part of Division II, Group B, marks Ukraine's third consecutive victory in three games, propelling them to the top of the group standings. The team's next game is scheduled against Hong Kong on April 3, 2026, at 14:30 Kyiv time. This strong start is a significant achievement for the Ukrainian program in a highly competitive international field.
Coach's Analysis and Team Challenges
Ukraine opened the tournament with a confident 4:2 win over Mexico. In the match against Belgium, the team's captain, Valeria Manchuk-Jensen, scored the sole goal. Alipov noted the game was difficult, as Belgium played defensively and relied on counter-attacks.
"The first game against Mexico was tough, especially in the second half. But here, against Belgium, it was clear from the very beginning that this team was extremely motivated to play us. It was a very hard game; we only managed to turn the tide in the third period," the coach emphasized.
Despite the wins, the team is facing roster issues. Player Maria Kazey has encountered shoulder problems, raising concerns about player readiness for the upcoming match.
"Belgium is more massive, stronger, and their team did not lose to us in speed, physical play, or anything. We also have our own infirmary right now—we still don't know who is ready or not ready [for the next game against Hong Kong]," Alipov pointed out.
The coach added that there are no easy matches in this tournament, and every team has the potential to win or lose. "So far, we've won these three games. That is very, very important," he summarized. The Ukrainian team continues to demonstrate an excellent level of play, and all fans are eagerly awaiting their next matches at the World Championship.
The victory over Belgium strengthens the Ukrainian team's position in the championship and underscores their competitiveness in international hockey. Given the roster challenges, the team will need to adapt quickly to maintain their form and continue their winning streak. The upcoming match against Hong Kong will be crucial for determining their path forward in the tournament.
As the Ukrainian team continues to impress with their performances, it's essential to reflect on their opening match, where they secured a notable victory against Mexico. This win set the tone for their strong showing in the tournament. For a detailed account of how Ukraine began their campaign with a 4-2 triumph, read more about the match here.