Germany clinched a record 8th World Junior Hockey Championship overtime by beating Spain 3-2 in a shootout after the game ended 1-1 in regulation time. The final featured disciplined defending and critical moments from both teams, with Germany goalkeeper Jasper Ditzer proving to be a key figure in the title shootout. This result denied Spain their first ever World Junior World Cup title.
Both teams took a cautious approach in the opening quarter, with Germany focusing on maintaining possession and defensive structure. Spain refrained from applying high pressure while Germany used tight marking to disrupt the Spanish midfield. Neither side created significant scoring opportunities during this phase, keeping the contest level and tense early on.
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Spain created five penalty corners in the first half but were unable to capitalize on them thanks to effective defending, especially by Ditzer. The German defensive unit remained organized throughout, blocking attempts and clearing danger to keep the scoreline unchanged. Ditzer’s composure in goal was instrumental in fending off Spanish pressure during these set pieces.
Germany increased their attacking intensity in the second quarter and the result was the opening goal of the game. In the 26th minute, Justus Waeweg scored after being set up by Maximilian Stahmann to give Germany a 1-0 half-time lead. The goal marked a turning point in the match, reflecting a successful tactical shift by Germany to increase their attacking pressure.
Spain responded quickly at the start of the third quarter. Within two minutes of the restart, Nicolas Mustaros scored to level the score at 1-1. Despite gaining momentum, Spain were unable to break through a resolute German defense that continued to absorb pressure and prevent further goals.
As the final quarter progressed, both Germany and Spain had moments of attacking promise. In the closing moments of regulation time, Waeweg had another chance to secure victory for Germany, but failed to convert, sending the game to a shootout after a tight 1-1 draw.
Spain introduced substitute goalkeeper Diego Palomero in the shootout, who kept his team’s hopes alive with two excellent saves. However, the Spanish forwards failed to convert their chances against Ditzer, whose performance in the shootout was decisive. Ditzer forced Andres Medina wide, making the angle too difficult to seal Germany’s win.
Ditzer, who was also a standout performer in the quarter-final shootout against France, was named man of the match for his efforts. Germany’s shootout victory extends their record as the most successful nation in Junior World Cup history with eight titles, while Spain continue their quest for a first World Cup.
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Published on:
December 10, 2025
