What would the Lithuanian U18 national team victory over Poland?
After three rounds, Poland is leading the group, winning all three victories (one after extension) and scoring 8 points. Lithuania is second with 6 points, and South Korea has the same number of points. Japan (3 pts), France (4 points) and Estonia (0 pts) are linked below, but the final line of the table can still change dramatically – the last two days in Kaunas will take all the questions in Kaunas.
The tournament table after 3 rounds:
Poland – 8 points (3 wins, 1 after extension).
Lithuania – 6 points (2 wins, 1 defeat).
South Korea – 6 points.
France – 4 points.
Japan – 3 points.
Estonia – 0 points.
The victory over Poland would mean that Lithuania continues the race for the first place – the last match against Japan would decide everything. If Lithuanians won both the remaining matches, the team would score 12 points and secure first place in the group and a ticket to a higher division A.
Photo by organizers
Such achievement would be a unique in the history of Lithuanian youth hockey – none of the U20 or U18 team has never played in Division A in Group A.
« Access to this would mean that our youth team is among the 16 best in the world. It would be analogous to the men’s national team to enter the World Cup elite division. It would not be just a victory for young people – it would be a step of the whole Lithuanian hockey to the next level, » said Simas Baltrūnas.
But the fate of the championship is still brittle. If Lithuania beat Poland today (rising to 9 points), but losing Japan on the last day (would remain with 9) and Poland would defeat South Korea (rise to 11), Poland would take first place – even after a defeat against Lithuania. So, the victories alone are not enough today – Lithuanians have to win all the remaining points to triumph in the group.
Led by coach Mario Durocher Optimistic selection It passes a clear message: the support of each supporter is now important as ever.
The tickets between Lithuania and Poland were redeemed in advance – Friday night will become a real hockey festival at Kaunas Ice Palace. It will not be possible to buy a ticket at the ticket, so viewers are invited to watch the match on screens – live broadcasts will take place through the Hockey Lithuania YouTube channel.
Due to the parking spaces reserved for the needs of the championship, spectators are invited to plan their arrival – it is recommended to choose public transport or further city sites.
