The lynx led by Coach Matjaž Kopitar dominated in shots (38:16). The Ukrainian team fell into inferior position in regular play; the three goals were all scored during power play in their favour. They played this part brilliantly, setting a typical example of how to trick the opponent’s defence. They made a comeback after the 0:2 result and even took a 3:2 lead in 43’. However, in the decisive moments of the third period, the lynx pulled themselves together and scored three goals.
Štebih and Urbas of Slovenia score
The lynx had not scored in the first three matches played at the championship. This time they focused on offence from the beginning, the Ukrainians were quickly given two expulsions, but there were no goals. In 13’ Anže Kuralt noticed the non-covered Miha Štebih, who achieved his first goal for the national team with a strong shot. Soon afterwards Marcel Rodman had to take the bench. Jan Muršak started a fast break and attempted to trick Sergij Gajdučenko, who saved the goal. 2’ before the end of 1st period, Jan Urbas increased the lead to 2:0 with an exceptional shot. The Slovenians dominated the first 20’, achieving the shot ratio 15:4.
Ukrainians excel in power play
At the start of 2nd period the lynx failed to increase the lead to 3:0 despite two power plays. In 27’ Aleš Mušič was expelled due to a hockey stick offence. Jurij Navarenko sent a strong shot from the blue line, Andrij Mihnov changed the path of the puck, beating goalkeeper Luka Gračnar, who got defeated for the first time at this championship. The Ukrainians were becoming increasingly dangerous. In 38’ Mitja Robar (SLO) was benched. In the crowd by the fence Oleksander Materuhin got the puck and passed it to Denis Petruhno, who evened out the result to 2:2.
Lynx ‘bare their teeth’ after falling behind
At the start of 3rd period David Rodman was sent to the bench, and the Ukrainians circulated the puck excellently in the offence area. In 43’ Jevgenij Beluhin formed a great combination to beat Gračnar. Nonetheless, in critical moments the lynx composed themselves. Only 30 seconds later Muršak sent a dangerous shot, Gajdučenko saved the goal, but Mušič (SLO) sent it back into the net between the goalkeeper’s legs.
In 47’ the Slovenians finally scored during their sixth power play, with a strong shot from far sent by Muršak. Tomaž Razingar had a good opportunity to increase the lead, but aimed too high. The Ukrainians had several chances to balance the result, yet Gračnar stayed focused. The final touch to Slovenia’s win came 3’ before the end, with Boštjan Goličič scoring.
The Japanese in excellent position
The Japanese are in great position to be one of the two teams advancing to the elite division. If Japan beats South Korea and Hungary in the last two rounds, it will qualify.

Statements after the match:
Miha Štebih: “We started the game as we had planned. We scored for a 2:0 lead and controlled the match, but in 2nd period our play rhythm fell and the Ukrainians won three power plays in a row. The Ukrainian team used this opportunity, since they’re strongest in this element. We’ve shown our character and heart. We made a comeback and won in the end.”

Aleš Mušič: “We played 1st period at a very high level. We let the Ukrainians few chances to score. We stayed focused despite falling behind, believing in our victory the entire time. We showed in 3rd period that we have a big heart and won deservedly.”

Boštjan Goličič: “When we led by 2:0, our play dropped a bit. We let Ukraine have too much room, which is why they moved towards our goal. We made too many offences, which enabled Ukraine to score and take over the lead. We’ve shown true character, we’ve shown that we play til the end, that we’re a true team and that we can win any match, even if a result turn needs to be made.”