Olympia 2026: German Ice Hockey Men Win Opening Game

Germany’s national ice hockey team started the Olympic tournament with a win against Denmark. The German Ice Hockey Association selection, led by Leon Draisaitl, won 3-1 (1-1, 2-0, 0-0) thanks to the NHL strikers. Tim Stützle from the Ottawa Senators (25th minute/31st) scored a brace, and Edmonton’s Draisaitl himself scored after 23 seconds. Oscar Mölgaard (14th) was successful for Denmark.

The team earned the victory thanks to individual strength in attack and a brilliant goalkeeper Philipp Grubauer from Seattle Kraken.

On Saturday (12.10 p.m./ARD) Germany continues in Milan, then the 2018 Olympic silver medalist meets Latvia, which lost 5-1 to the USA on Thursday evening.

The start of the game was fantastic from a German perspective. Leon Draisaitl initiated the first attack at full speed and scored on an assist from Frederik Tiffels, his old childhood friend.

However, the Danes, who were strong like the Germans, worked their way back in the first third. This was not just due to the four NHL players currently in the Danish squad alone. Rather, the German defense fell short compared to the strong offense, and the game structure left a lot to be desired.

A double individual mistake by NHL striker Joshua Samanski (Edmonton) and the otherwise strong goalie Grubauer finally ensured the not undeserved equalizer.

However, the individual offensive power of the German NHL professionals brought the momentum back. With a great direct pass following Peterka’s assist, Stützle scored his first ever goal in the national jersey. Draisaitl continued to be a feast for the eyes, as he inimitably claimed the puck and was almost unstoppable. And if so, then only through fouls.

This resulted in a majority situation in the middle of the game in which the German selection brought all of its stars onto the ice. It took 21 seconds before Draisaitl, Stützle, JJ Peterka and Co. struck again. Denmark defender Oliver Lauridsen directed a Stützle shot into his own net. The district selection then confidently maintained its lead over time.

In addition to Draisaitl, eight other professionals employed in the North American professional league also made their Olympic debut. The NHL gave its players clearance for winter games for the first time since 2014.

This ensures a top-class tournament spectacle in Milan. The German squad is considered the best ever in the history of the German Ice Hockey Association. In addition to Draisaitl, Stützle, Moritz Seider and Grubauer are also among the top NHL players. 24 year old JJ Peterka is on his way there.