Austria's women's ice hockey team secured their place in the top division with a dramatic 2-1 overtime victory over Japan in Herning on Friday. Captain Anna Meixner scored the decisive goal just 70 seconds into the extra period on the power play, ensuring the promoted side avoided relegation.
The game was a tense affair, with the first period ending scoreless. Meixner broke the deadlock in the 21st minute, converting a one-timer just 36 seconds into a power play after Japan took a penalty at the end of the first period. Austria held the lead until the 51st minute, when Akane Shiga equalized for Japan, beating goaltender Selma Luggin with Japan's 24th shot of the game.
Overtime Drama
Both teams entered the match winless in the tournament, and the stakes were high. Japan, who have been in the top division since 2019, pushed hard for a winner in regulation, but Austria's defense held firm, with Luggin also benefiting from a Japanese shot hitting the post.
The turning point came late in the third period when a Japanese player was sent to the penalty box with 1:30 remaining. Just seconds into overtime, another Japanese player was penalized, giving Austria a 5-on-4 advantage. Meixner, who plays for Brynäs IF in Sweden, made no mistake, firing a shot that found the back of the net to seal the win.
The victory means Austria will continue to compete among the world's best in women's ice hockey, while Japan's struggles in the tournament continue.