Stefano Daprá, assistant coach of Italy's women's ice hockey team.

“We have created a second ‘Miracle on Ice’”

When the final buzzer sounded yesterday at the Rho Ice Hockey Arena in Milan, there was no holding back the celebrations on the ice, on the players' bench, and in the stands. Italy's women's team had advanced to the Olympic quarterfinals for the first time. Assistant coach Stefano Daprá then took the time for the following interview.

February 10, 2026

From: kp

Congratulations on reaching the quarterfinals! Honestly, did you expect that before the games started?

Stefano Daprá: To be honest, no. After all, reaching the quarterfinals means being among the eight best nations in the world. We're ranked 17th in the world. But we knew that, with the exception of Sweden, we could surprise any opponent. We were confident from the start. We delivered a second "Miracle on Ice".


What is your analysis of the game against Japan?

Daprá: It was a very close game. We started well, but experienced some critical moments in the second period. Our goalie, Gabriella Durante, kept us in the game several times. The 3-1 goal right at the beginning of the final period came at the right moment and gave us the necessary confidence. After they went down 2-3, we didn't panic, stayed calm, and kept playing.


What was the key to this huge success?

Daprá: The seven-week training camp in Montreal helped us a lot. We were able to train daily on the smaller ice surface for an extended period and get used to it. But it was also crucial that the players lived as full-time professionals for almost two months. They had nothing but hockey on their minds all day long. There was no school or work for them.

Manuela Heidenberger (right) is causing a sensation with Italy's women's team. © APA/afp / JULIEN DE ROSA

What makes this team stand out?

Daprá: This team is like a family. All the players work closely together and are all pulling in the same direction. The team spirit is very strong. Everyone is positive and willing to work hard and push themselves to their limits.

How will Italy approach their final group stage match against Germany?

Daprá: It's just as important as the three previous matches. We'll prepare well and want to take the next step. We're taking this game very seriously and want to win it. After all, second place in Group B and a lot of prestige are at stake. Matches against Germany are special and provide extra motivation for several of our players.


In the quarterfinals, one of the top nations is likely to await. What would it mean to play against Canada or the USA?

Daprá: For now, our entire focus is on our next opponent. And that opponent is Germany. Playing against Canada or the USA would be a great experience for all of us. We would definitely enjoy it.  


Interview: Kurt Platter