Belgium Under 20 opened its campaign at the IIHF World Championship Division IIIA on Monday evening with a dramatic overtime loss against host nation and tournament contender Bulgaria.
Belgium came out strong in the first period, showing determination and intensity from the opening faceoff. The Belgian side controlled large stretches of play and generated sustained offensive pressure but was repeatedly denied by a hard-working Bulgarian goaltender. After 20 minutes of solid hockey, the score remained 0?0. Belgium outshot Bulgaria 12?5 in the opening period, setting the tone early.
The game turned in the second period when Bulgaria scored first. Belgium responded immediately by increasing the tempo and...
