The offensive is stuck: Italy's bitter start to the World Cup

Italy's women's national ice hockey team got off to a stumbling start at the Division IB World Championship in Riga, Latvia. The Azzurre narrowly lost to outsiders Great Britain.

March 31, 2024

From: leo

Stephanie Poirier's team had firmly planned on a win against Great Britain, but in the end everything turned out differently: despite a pressing superiority, Italy had to give way to their opponents with a score of 0-1. A goal from Jodie Alderson-Smith in the 38th minute proved to be the deciding factor. Three days ago, Italy won a friendly against Great Britain 3-1.

After a balanced start, the Blue Team gained field advantages as the match continued. However, Chelsea Furlani & Co. were unable to capitalize on countless chances - not least because Nicole Jackson had a really great day in the British goal. Shortly before the end of the second period, Alderson-Smith was there with a lucky goal. The captain didn't hit the puck fully after a cross pass, but it somehow rolled over the line.

Winning is now a must

In the final third, Italy literally laid siege to the goal guarded by Jackson - but without achieving the goal they had hoped for. If the Azzurre want to have a say in promotion, they can no longer afford to slip up. The game continues on Monday against hosts Latvia (18.30 p.m.).

IB Division World Championships in Riga:

Great Britain – Italy 1:0
Goals: 1-0 Alderson-Smith (37.55)

Slovenia – Poland 4:1
Goals: 1:0 Pren (3.15), 1:1 Zielinska (4.13), 2:1 Svetina (15.36), 3:1 Blazinsek (21.38), 4:1 Nylaander (43.25)

Latvia – Slovakia 1:7
Goals: 1:0 Lagzdina (5.12), 1:1 Hlinkova (19.59), 1:2 Kapicakova (23.55), 1:3 Blichova (28.39), 1:4 Kubekova (29.01), 1:5 Tothova (35.54), 1:6 Tothova (37.13), 1:7 Kapicakova (39.57)