Full Stanley Cup Quarterfinal Bracket Set as Ukraine Defeats Lithuania in Hockey

2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Quarterfinal Matchups Confirmed

According to Главком: The final spot in the 2026 Stanley Cup quarterfinals has been claimed. The Montreal Canadiens secured their place by defeating the Tampa Bay Lightning in the opening round. With that result, the remaining teams competing for the championship are now set:

• Carolina Hurricanes will face the Philadelphia Flyers (1-0 series lead)
• Colorado Avalanche take on the Minnesota Wild
• Vegas Golden Knights square off against the Anaheim Ducks
• Buffalo Sabres battle the Montreal Canadiens

Ukraine Shines on the International Stage

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian national team continues to make its mark internationally. In a 2026 IIHF World Championship Division IA matchup, Ukraine edged out Lithuania with a 2:1 victory. Both of Ukraine's goals came on the power play, while Lithuania managed to score only during even-strength play. The final score was Ukraine 2, Lithuania 1 (1:0, 1:1, 0:0).

Ukraine's goals were scored by Merezko (assists: Peresunko, Vorona) at 15:02 and Trakht (assists: Peresunko, Fadeyev) at 28:12. Lithuania's lone goal came from Yukna (assists: Rumshevichyus, Krakauskas) at 32:01.

These events highlight the competitive nature of hockey at both the club and national levels. Ukraine's success in this international match underscores the team's growing strength on the world stage.

At the same time, the Stanley Cup remains one of hockey's most prestigious tournaments, where teams vie for recognition and the coveted trophy. This competition continues to drive the sport's development and fan engagement across North American leagues.

As Ukraine's hockey team continues to impress on the international stage, their upcoming challenge against France on May 5 promises to be another thrilling encounter. This match will be crucial for Ukraine as they aim to build on their recent victory over Lithuania. For more details on this pivotal clash, read about how Ukraine secured their win and what lies ahead for them in the tournament in this article.