In a dramatic 3-2 overtime win against Estonia, Israel’s women’s national ice hockey team secures gold at the IIHF World Championships in Sarajevo, marking a major milestone for the sport in the country.

The Israeli women’s national ice hockey team etched their names into history with a thrilling 3-2 overtime victory over Estonia to claim the gold medal in their division at the IIHF World Championships in Sarajevo. In a sport still growing in Israel, this triumph represents not just an athletic achievement, but a testament to perseverance, teamwork, and the rapid development of women’s hockey in the country.

With the game tied at 2-2 after regulation, the Israeli squad displayed resilience and determination in the extra period. Just minutes into overtime, a perfectly executed play led to the game-winning goal, sending the team into wild celebrations on the ice. Players embraced, draped in blue and white, as the Israeli flag was raised in victory—a moment of immense national pride for a country where hockey has long struggled for recognition.

A Hard-Fought Battle on the Ice

The championship match against Estonia was a nail-biting affair from the first drop of the puck. Estonia struck first, capitalizing on a defensive breakdown to take an early 1-0 lead. But Israel responded with relentless energy, showcasing strong defensive play and sharp passing to even the score by the end of the first period.

The second period saw Israel seize momentum, taking a 2-1 lead after a power-play goal that electrified their bench. However, Estonia refused to back down, managing to tie the game late in the third period, setting the stage for a dramatic overtime showdown.

Israeli goaltender Yael Fatiev was instrumental in keeping her team alive, making several clutch saves to deny Estonia a go-ahead goal. Meanwhile, the offensive charge was led by, Lior Leshem whose speed and precision passing created multiple scoring opportunities.

When the overtime period began, both teams fought for control, but it was Israel that ultimately found the breakthrough moment. Lior Leshem skated past an Estonian defender and delivered a perfectly placed shot that beat the goaltender, sealing the victory and igniting jubilation among players and supporters.

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