In a nail-biting showdown at the IIHF Division I Group B Men’s World Championship in Tallinn, Estonia, China’s men’s ice hockey team secured a thrilling 4-3 victory over Croatia. This marks China’s first win in the tournament after both teams started with two losses.
The game ignited with excitement as Hou Yuyang dazzled past Croatia’s defense, firing a shot past goaltender Mislav Rosandić to give China an early 1-0 lead. Despite aggressive attempts from Wang Jing and Yu Jilong, it was again Hou who capitalized on a rebound in the second period, doubling China’s advantage.
Croatia fought back fiercely. Just six minutes later, a seamless play between Patric Dobrić and Karlo Marinković set up Borna Rendulić, who delivered a sharp wrist shot to bring the score to 2-1. The tension escalated in the third period when Rendulić connected with Vito Idžan, leveling the game at 2-2 with a swift redirection.
Refusing to back down, China reclaimed the lead through Yan Juncheng’s timely goal. However, Croatia responded once more as Rendulić found Nikolas Malenica, who tapped in to tie the game at 3-3.
With the clock winding down, the match seemed destined for overtime. But in a dramatic twist, Yan struck again in the final minute, securing the decisive goal that sealed China’s crucial 4-3 triumph.
The victory injects new energy into the Chinese team as they continue their campaign in the championship. The thrilling performance showcased the team’s resilience and determination, promising more exciting action in the games ahead.
