Thrill of the Rink: DEB Team Ticks Unseen Box in Unusual World Cup Victory
"Unprecedented victory": DEB team claims astonishing World Cup match triumph
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A hole in the ice caused two interruptions even during NHL superstar Tim Stützle's game, leaving him and the German ice hockey team stunned. But they didn't lose their stride!
Amid the World Cup's third preliminary round game against Norway, Stützle - a massive addition with his contribution of two assists - led his coach Harold Kreis's team to a 5:2 (2:1, 2:0, 1:1) victory. With a maximum of nine points, the DEB team ranked as table leaders, gearing up to face arch-rival Switzerland on Thursday (16:20/ProSieben and MagentaSport) for a intense World Cup classic. The way ahead includes toughening challenges: USA and defending champion Czech Republic await.
Second Win in the Second Game
The German team boasted four goals post an own goal with Yasin Ehliz (5), Marc Michaelis (17), Wojciech Stachowiak (25), Straubing's Joshua Samanski (27), and Berlin's Frederik Tiffels (60) on the scoreboard. Norway's only scores came from Andreas Martinsen (20) and Jacob Berglund (48), despite Lukas Reichel's unfortunate injury withdrawal during the second period.
Surprising Ice Surface Conditions
Stützle, who joined the team after his playoff exit with the Ottawa Senators, displayed agility and aggression. But the ice surface, in a bad shape, was a challenging opponent as well. A massive chunk of ice broke off at the boards, causing sudden early off-ice breaks during the first and second periods, leaving the players frustrated. Stützle reported: "Never seen anything like this," remarking on the questionable ice maintenance.
While an early break would typically be feared, the 1,000 German fans favored the opposing team with chants of, "You're only breaking the ice!" That didn't discourage Stützle, who almost netted his first goal with a brilliant play.
NHL Star Strengthens DEB's Lineup
To make room for Stützle, Berlin's Leo Pföderl briefly exited the team. Despite a stellar season with the Eisbären, his dominance was lacking in the first two preliminary round games. Coach Kreis highlighted the team's hectic schedule as the reason for his rest, stating, "We have seven games in ten days."
Defender Eric Mik marked his World Cup debut, while club colleague Jonas Müller celebrated his 100th game in the DEB jersey. Goalkeeper NHL goalkeeper Philipp Grubauer continued his preferred position over Munich's Mathias Niederberger.
Norway showcased aggressive play right from the start with tough checks for captain Moritz Seider and forward Michaelis. Stützle opened the scoring, passing brilliantly to Ehliz despite being initially denied by goalkeeper Jonas Arntzen. Michaelis followed with a well-placed shot after a pass from Ehliz after Norway scored to bring them back into the game. Stachowiak netted a series of precise shots, taking the score to 4:1. In the final period, the German team maintained a suffocating defense, with Stützle narrowly missing his first goal with a slick move.
The victory of the DEB team, led by NHL star Tim Stützle, has sparked excitement within the youth and sports community, as they continue to impress with their tenacity despite questionable ice maintenance in the unusual World Cup conditions. As the competition heats up, the team faces tough challenges ahead, including matches against the USA and defending champion Czech Republic.
