The Czech Republic fell behind in the Olympic ice hockey tournament against France after leading 2:0, but still won clearly in the end with 6:3.
13.02.2026, 19:12
SDA
The Czechs clearly dominated the first period - the shot ratio was 16:3 in their favor - and were 2:0 ahead. However, the French then scored three goals within 4:53 minutes at the start of the middle period and turned the game around in the meantime. Louis Boudon, who plays for Mikkelin Jukurit in Finland, scored the first two goals for the underdogs and also had a hand in Hugo Gallet's 3:2 goal (26').
The Czechs responded in the second period: star striker David Pastrnak equalized to make it 3:3 (34.) before Davos striker Matej Stransky put the Eastern Europeans back in front 32 seconds before the second break with a goal while short-handed. Stransky had already been credited with an assist on Michal Kempny's 2:0 (14th). In the 42nd minute, Filip Chlapik and Roman Cervenka, who used to play in Switzerland, scored twice within 48 seconds to give France the lead.
France's goalkeeper Martin Neckar was subsequently replaced by Julian Junca. Neckar is the SCL Tigers' third goalie and has been playing for Chur in the Swiss League for most of this season. The Czechs are Switzerland's last opponent in the preliminary round on Sunday.
In Group B, Finland made amends for their 4-1 opening defeat against Slovakia. The current Olympic champions beat Sweden 4:1, while the Slovaks also defeated Italy 3:2.
