Japan Women’s Ice Hockey Loss: Germany Dominates 2-5

[스포츠조선 김가을 기자]Japan suffered a crushing defeat against Germany and issued a public apology.

The Japanese women’s ice hockey team, led by coach Yuji Iizuka, lost 2 to 5 in the second match of Group B of the women’s ice hockey group stage at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics against Germany held at the Milan Ice Park in Milan, Italy on the 7th (Korean time).

A blow was allowed to a lower rank. Japan is ranked 8th and Germany is 9th in the world rankings. However, Japan stumbled significantly in this game, conceding a goal in just 44 seconds. Japan finished the game 0-3 in the first period, 2-2 in the second period, and 0-0 in the third period. With this loss, Japan recorded 1 win and 1 loss. In the previous game against France, they won 3-2.

Japanese media Nikkan Sports reported, ‘Japan lost to Germany. It was reported that the team lost their winning streak because they were unable to successfully counterattack. According to this media outlet, Coach Iizuka said, “I thought we could have drawn the game a little tighter and ultimately decided the winner or loser. However, it was a game where early goals had an impact until the end. If we had scored a little earlier, I think we could have turned the tide. After conceding 5 goals, it feels too late. I want to move on to the next game without being tied down by the loss.” Japan will clash with the ‘host’ Italy on the 9th.

According to another media outlet, Sports Hochi, ‘Captain’ Shiori Koike said, “The biggest reason for the loss was that we allowed Germany to attack in the first five minutes and conceded three consecutive goals. The opponent came strong. I want to share my reflections on the game with the team and move on to the next game.”

Meanwhile, women’s ice hockey at this tournament is at the center of the norovirus issue. Following the Finnish women’s ice hockey team, the Swiss women’s ice hockey team is also experiencing difficulties. Previously, the Associated Press reported, “13 members of the Finnish national team are in quarantine due to a norovirus infection that began on the night of the 3rd. The decision to postpone the game was made immediately after the Finnish national team trained with eight skaters and two goalies. If the game had not been postponed, Finland considered the possibility of abstention.” The Games Organizing Committee said, “The decision was made based on health and safety principles, considering the health and safety of all participants, including athletes, teams, staff, and officials, as the top priority. It was a necessary measure for the spirit of the Olympic Games and the fairness of the Games. We look forward to the adjusted Games being held in a safe and appropriate environment.”

Reporter Kim Ga-eul epi17@sportschosun.com