Nitra Edges Michalovce in Thrilling Overtime Victory to Open Playoff Series
Nitra defeated Michalovce 4-3 in overtime in the opening game of their Tipsport Liga quarterfinal playoff series. Samuel Buček scored twice, including the game-winning goal, for Nitra. The second game of the series is scheduled for Saturday in Nitra.
Game Summary
The match, played on Friday, March 20, 2026, saw a back-and-forth battle with a dramatic finish. The final score was 4-3 for Nitra after overtime. A total of 3,227 spectators witnessed the intense contest.
Scoring Details
Nitra Goals:
- Zach Osburn (23rd minute)
- Samuel Buček (27th minute) – assisted by Lacka and Carmichael
- Robby Jackson (36th minute) – assisted by Lacka and Chrenko
- Samuel Buček (69th minute) – overtime winner
Michalovce Goals:
- Jordan Martel (21st minute) – assisted by Roy and Virtanen
- Marc-Olivier Roy (34th minute) – assisted by Meliško and Virtanen
- Jake Virtanen (41st minute)
Game Flow
The first period was scoreless, with both teams engaging in a physical battle. The second period erupted with five goals, as Nitra and Michalovce traded scoring chances. Nitra took a 3-2 lead into the third period. Virtanen tied the game early in the third, setting the stage for a tense overtime period. Buček ultimately secured the victory for Nitra with his second goal of the game.
Team Lineups
HK Nitra: Patrikainen – Mezei, Osburn, Carmichael, Graham, Stacha, Vitaloš, Bača – Paulovič, Krištof, Buček – Lawrence, Chrenko, Jackson – Lacka, Čederle, Passolt – Kováč, Hrnka, Bajtek
HK Dukla Michalovce: Glosár – Welsh, Marcinko, Bindulis, Meliško, Serrti, Kubka, Stahoň – Martel, Roy, Virtanen – Matta, Kytnár, Spodniak – Bartánus, Šmida, Fominych – A. Varga, Lichanec, Hrabčák
Discipline
The game saw a total of 12 penalties, with 4 assessed to Nitra and 8 to Michalovce. There were no power play or shorthanded goals scored.
Next Game
The second game of the series will be played on Saturday, March 21, 2026, in Nitra.
Source: sportnet.sme.sk