Germany secures Top Pool spot with win over Kazakhstan

Germany - Kazakhstan 4-3

Kazakhstan struck first, with Asanali Ruslanuly capitalizing on a turnover just 4:33 into the game. However, their joy was short-lived as Maxim Schäfer responded a mere eight seconds later, deflecting Nick Maul's shot past Vladimir Nikitin to equalize.

Late in the opening period, Kazakhstan reclaimed the lead with Nikita Sitnikov's opportunistic bank shot, giving them a 2-1 edge heading into intermission. Early in the second period, Artur Gross extended the lead with a precise shot over Linus Vieillard's glove.

Kazakhstan's momentum was disrupted by back-to-back penalties midway through the second, handing Germany a critical 5-on-3 opportunity. Schäfer and Edwin Tropmann converted the power plays within 21 seconds, tying the game and shifting the momentum firmly in Germany's favor.

The decisive moment came early in the third period, as Julius Sumpf, who had been instrumental in Germany's resurgence, scored on another power play to make it 4-3. Germany's disciplined defense held firm, with Vieillard making 31 saves to preserve the lead.

Maxim Schäfer earned Player of the Game honors for Germany with two goals, while Beibarys Orazov stood out for Kazakhstan, registering an assist and consistently pressuring the German defense.

For Germany, the victory provides a much-needed boost after their U18 team's relegation earlier in the season. Maintaining their spot in the top pool secures another opportunity to compete against the world's best in 2026.

Kazakhstan, meanwhile, will aim to regroup and dominate Division 1A to earn promotion back to the elite level. Despite the setback, their performance demonstrated flashes of brilliance and potential for growth.

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