The third victory in three matches allowed Khristich’s team to win qualifying group J
Ukrainian national hockey team outplayed in a productive match Estonia and took first place ahead of schedule in Group J of the pre-qualifying tournament Olympics 2026 – 5:3.
Dmitry Khristich’s team needed a victory with any score to solve the problem. The Ukrainians had a powerful first period, at the end of which they managed to lead with a large score. At the same time, the Estonians did not look like whipping boys, creating a number of good chances with the score 1:0.
The second period was marked by a massive exchange of chances. Ukrainian goalkeeper Bogdan Dyachenko made several saves, but the Estonians still had 20 minutes left.
The closer it was to the end of the fight, the more nervous tension took its toll. The blue-and-yellows gave up the initiative, but did not take advantage of their chances in counterattacks, and they themselves conceded for the third time. The situation was close to critical, but Alexander Peresunko managed to bury the intrigue, realizing a one-on-one situation.
Thus, Khristich’s team won their quartet ahead of schedule and advanced to the final stage of Olympic qualification, regardless of the outcome of the match between the Poles and Koreans. Let us remind you that earlier the blue-yellows defeated South Korea (4:0) and beat the Polish team in a shootout (3:2).
The Ukrainian national team advanced to the final round of Olympic qualification. The final round is another group stage. Only the best teams in each quartet will qualify directly for the Olympic tournament in Milan, which will take place in February 2026.
- Pre-qualifying tournament for the 2026 Olympics. Group J. 3rd round
Ukraine — Estonia — 5:3 (3:0, 1:2, 1:1)
Washers: 1:0 – Mazur (Merezhko, Trakht – big), 02:29. 2:0 – Pangelov-Yuldashev (Deniskin, Grebenik), 15:59. 3:0 – Lyalka, 17:17. 3:1 – Arraq (Rooba, Fursa), 23:29. 4:1 – Fadeev (Peresunko), 24:33. 4:2 – Vasenkin (Virtanen), 26:41. 4:3 – Virtanen, 55:53. 5:3 – Peresunko (Lyalka), 57:40
Source: Sportarena
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