Overview

• Germany failed to advance past the group stage for the first time since 2018, losing 1:2 in a shootout to Denmark in their final match.
• NHL stars Moritz Seider and Tim Stützle struggled to deliver impactful performances, reflecting broader team cohesion and leadership challenges.
• Bundestrainer Harold Kreis faced criticism for frequent lineup changes that disrupted chemistry and a power play that ranked among the tournament's worst.
• Concerns over Germany's developmental pipeline have grown, with the U20 program narrowly avoiding relegation in recent years.
• The early exit disrupts momentum built from the 2023 silver medal, prompting urgent reflection as the team prepares for the 2026 Olympics and 2027 home World Championship.