Gabriel Nitz delivered a stellar performance. © ANSA / FRIEDEMANN VOGEL

Gabriel Nitz: “A childhood dream come true”

Gabriel Nitz is on cloud nine, as the 19-year-old is making his debut at an Ice Hockey World Championship in Fribourg. But that's not all: On Sunday, in their 1-4 loss against Slovakia, he also scored the Azzurri's first goal of the tournament.

18 May 2026

From Fribourg

The Jalonen team had to wait over 105 minutes before they could celebrate their first goal at the Ice Hockey World Championship. Ironically, the goal was scored by the player from whom it was least expected: Gabriel Nitz has played 71 games in his still young career in the AlpsHL and ICEHL – and the teenager had never scored a goal before.

His personal goal drought finally broke on the biggest stage of all. In the 46th minute, the Slovaks cleared the ball forward, and Nitz didn't hesitate, beating Slovakian goalkeeper Adam Gajan. "At first, I didn't even realize I'd scored because I thought it was a deflection. When it hit me, a childhood dream came true. Scoring a goal on this stage is an incredible feeling," emphasized the South Tyrolean, who will be joining the youth academy of Finnish first-division club HPK next season, along with his twin brother Raffael.

Quickly adapted to the level

The defender for the Wipptal Broncos and HC Pustertal has quickly adapted to the increased level of play at the World Championships. "But there's still room for improvement," says the 19-year-old. "I can build on the performances I've shown so far."

Jake Smith put on a strong performance. © ANSA / SALVATORE DI NOLFI

Goalkeeper Jacob Smith also experienced a special afternoon. Having come to South Tyrol ten years ago, the 31-year-old played his first World Championship game. "After the Canada game, I found out I'd be playing today, went through my usual routine, and was determined to enjoy it as much as possible," said Smith, who made some strong saves, suggesting he'll be a strong contender for further World Championship appearances.

"I'm satisfied with how I and we as a team played. We fought hard, blocked countless shots, played aggressively, and can take a lot of positives away from this. Gabriel's goal was an incredible moment for the whole team."