Czech Para-Hockey Team Falls Short, Loses Bronze Medal Match to China at 2026 Paralympics

Milan, Italy – The Czech Republic’s para-hockey team suffered a heartbreaking 2-3 loss to China in the bronze medal match at the 2026 Winter Paralympics in Milan, Italy, on Sunday, March 15th. Despite a strong start, the Czech team was unable to hold onto their early lead as China mounted a comeback to secure the bronze.

Early Czech Dominance, Chinese Comeback

The Czech Republic began the game with impressive momentum, taking a 2-0 lead in the third minute with goals from Pavel Kubeš and captain Radek Zelinka. However, China responded swiftly, with Tian Jinchao and Wang Ch’tung scoring before the finish of the first period to tie the game. Tian Tianchao then scored the game-winning goal just 18 seconds into the third period, completing the turnaround for China.

Coach and Goalkeeper Reflect on the Defeat

Czech coach Jakub Novotný expressed disappointment with the team’s performance, suggesting that overmotivation may have played a role. “Perhaps the management overmotivated us unnecessarily. China was faster, they were able to place us under pressure with their movement. It was a goal, but unfortunately they used more of the chance. The defeat hurts a lot, but I believe it will motivate us to keep moving forward and improve,” Novotný said.

Goalkeeper Patrik Sedláček echoed the coach’s sentiments, praising the team’s effort throughout the tournament. “It didn’t work out, maybe it will work out another time. I’m proud of the whole team in general. We have an incredibly great team, the coaches are great, I wouldn’t change it. The whole team did an incredible job throughout the tournament, I hope it continues like this and it will be successful next time,” Sedláček stated.

United States Claims Gold

In the gold medal game, the United States defeated Canada 6-2, securing their fifth consecutive Paralympic gold medal in para-hockey.

Pavel Kubeš’s Profile

Pavel Kubeš is a member of the Czech para-hockey team and plays as a forward. He is affiliated with CTU FEE in Prague [CTU FEE]. Born May 23, 1943, Kubeš received his M.Sc. From Charles University in 1965 and his Ph.D. In plasma physics from the Czech Technical University in 1977. [IEEE Xplore]

Pavel Kubeš’s ISBHF Career

Pavel Kubeš also has a notable career in the International Street & Ball Hockey Federation (ISBHF). He has participated in several tournaments, including the 2022 Men’s Masters Championship and the 2017 ISBHF World Street & Ball Hockey Championship. [ISBHF]