The Ukrainian women’s national hockey team achieved a dominant 8–2 victory over New Zealand during their second-round match at the 2026 World Championship in Division IIB.
The game started with intense pressure from the Ukrainian squad, resulting in the opening goal midway through the first period by Polina Telegina. Although New Zealand briefly equalized during a power play, Ukraine quickly responded. Team captain Valeria Manchak scored straight off a faceoff, and Telegina followed up with her second goal, bringing the score to 3–1 by the end of the first period.
The second period showcased overwhelming offensive dominance from the Ukrainian team, who netted five unanswered goals. Just 24 seconds into the period, Telegina completed her hat trick. Throughout the next ten minutes, accurate scoring by Daria Tsymirenko, Ilona Kipri, and Valeria Manchak—who also secured a hat trick—extended Ukraine’s lead to a decisive 8–1.
During the final period, the Ukrainian coaching staff made a goaltender change, substituting Anna Kharkivska for Yuliana Vilgan. With the outcome largely decided, the pace slowed down, and New Zealand managed to score a consolation goal in the 53rd minute, bringing the final score to 8–2 in favor of Ukraine.
