The U18 national team won the game for 7th place at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup 2021 against Switzerland. It was an even game with the better ending for the German selection; after a penalty shootout, they defeated the Swiss in the end 3:2 (0:0; 2:2; 0:0).
U18 national coach Alexander Dück's team started defensively much improved compared to the last two games. It was a balanced game with chances on both sides. Nevertheless, we went into the first third break with a goalless draw.
The goals came in the second third. In the seventh minute of the second period, Lurati opened the scoring for Switzerland. Less than 60 seconds later, Team Germany equalized. Lutz was successful after an assist from Kechter and Kauhanen. It lasted until the end of the second third, but then the same picture. Again the Swiss presented, this time through Müller, again the German team had the right answer, again Lutz scored on an assist from Kechter to make the score 2-2 at halftime.
A balanced and exciting game also developed in the third third. However, neither team was able to score the decisive goal. After no goals were scored in extra time, the penalty shootout had to make the decision, with the better end for the German U18 national team. Lutz and Sivic scored for the German selection, Bichsel's goal for the Swiss wasn't enough in the end, Wolf in the German goal was able to defuse all four further penalties.
A conciliatory conclusion for the team led by U18 national coach Alexander Dück at his first tournament with the team. Especially with a view to the World Cup in our own country, it was a good test at the top international level.
U18 national coach Alexander Dück: “It was an intense game that ended better for us. Compliments to my team, they gave it their all and in the end they were rewarded for their commitment and the passion they all showed today. It was important for us to leave the tournament with a feeling of success. The boys were able to overcome the two bitter defeats and showed character today.”
Here you can find all the statistics about the tournament: https://www.flashscore.de/eishockey/welt/hlinka-gretzky-cup/