Sofia, Bulgaria – Belgium gave it their all in a nail-biting game against Spain at the IIHF Division II Group B U18 World Championships in Sofia. Entering the game with high hopes, Belgium needed to secure a victory in regulation time to keep their ambitions alive.
The team demonstrated incredible determination, keeping the score tied throughout the first two periods. Both sides played with intense focus, with neither team able to capitalize on mistakes. Belgium made a strategic move by starting with fresh goalkeeper #20 Tove Laermans, who made his debut in this critical match—a decision that proved effective, as Spain had evidently prepared for Niko Sifakakis, the goalkeeper from Belgium's first two games.
The third period began with Belgium taking the lead, as #24 Arsiyan Van de Brande skillfully bypassed Spain's hardworking goalkeeper to score the opening goal. This well-earned success increased the pressure on Spain, but the Spaniards rose to the challenge. After a series of penalties, Spain capitalized on a power play to equalize.
The final ten minutes saw both teams battle fiercely, but Spain managed to turn the score in their favor with just two minutes left on the clock. In a last-ditch effort, Belgium's coaching duo replaced their goalkeeper with an extra field player, but Spain seized the opportunity to score on an empty net, sealing their 3–1 victory.
Though the defeat was a disappointment for Team Belgium, their performance against the tournament's likely winner was nothing short of remarkable.
Following Friday's rest day, Belgium will face two crucial games against Serbia and host nation Bulgaria. With strong performances, the team has the chance to secure a bronze medal.
MVP : #20 TOVE LAERMANS
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