Hungarian girls promoted to the top division

Tournament Standings:

1. Hungary: 5 GP, 5 Wins, 13:2 GD, 15 Points
2. Italy: 5 GP, 4 Wins, 12:9 GD, 12 Points
3. Germany: 5 GP, 2 Wins, 12:12 GD, 6 Points
4. Norway: 5 GP, 1 Win + 1 OT Win, 12:15 GD, 5 Points
5. France: 5 GP, 1 Win + 1 OT Loss, 10:16 GD, 4 Points
6. Austria: 5 GP, 0 Wins + 1 OT Win, 9:14 GD, 3 Points

Hungary’s Golden Campaign

Hungary’s path to promotion was characterized by an ironclad defense and timely scoring. The team conceded just two goals throughout the tournament, with goaltenders Helga Milibak and Noemi Takacs delivering outstanding performances. Takacs earned the Top Goaltender Award, while blueliner Boglarka Bahiczki-Toth was named the tournament’s Top Defender for her contributions on both ends of the ice.

Key moments included Hungary’s decisive 4-0 win over Italy, where Bahiczki-Toth tallied three assists, and a nail-biting 1-0 victory against Austria on the final day, secured by Bahiczki-Toth’s late goal.

Italy Secures Silver

Italy finished second, continuing their streak of strong performances in Division IA. Leading the team were Matilde Fantin and Manuela Heidenberger, who tied as the tournament’s top scorers with eight points each. Fantin earned the Top Forward Award, and both were instrumental in Italy’s victories, including a thrilling 4-3 win over Austria and a dominant 3-0 shutout against Germany.

Their only loss came against Hungary, where they struggled to penetrate the hosts’ defense in a 4-0 defeat.

Germany Takes Bronze

Returning from the Top Division, Germany managed two early wins against Norway and Austria, securing the bronze medal. Fifteen-year-old Alexandra Boico was the tournament’s top goal scorer with five goals, including a hat trick in Germany’s 5-2 win over Austria. However, consecutive losses in their final three games dampened their campaign.

Norway’s Resilience

Norway impressed in their return to Division IA, showcasing determination despite an inconsistent start. Their highlight was a dramatic comeback overtime victory against Austria, erasing a 3-0 deficit to win 4-3, with Kajsa Bråten scoring the OT winner.

The team ended on a high note with a 5-3 win over France, propelled by a standout performance from Bråten, who tallied six points in the tournament.

France Avoids Relegation

France narrowly avoided relegation thanks to a crucial 4-3 comeback victory against Germany. Despite finishing fifth, their ability to claw back from deficits demonstrated grit.

Austria Relegated

Austria’s campaign was marked by close contests but ultimately ended in relegation. Forward Emma Lintner shone, scoring six points, including her team’s OT winner against France. However, Austria’s inability to convert tight games into wins sealed their fate.

Conclusion

Hungary’s flawless performance and promotion to the Top Division highlight their growth as a hockey nation. Italy and Germany remain strong contenders in Division IA, while Norway’s progress and resilience bode well for the future. France’s survival ensures another opportunity at this level, while Austria will look to rebuild in Division IB.

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