In the opening game of the 2026 Winter Olympics, the German ice hockey team secured a notable victory against Denmark with a score of 3-1. The match began with an impressive start as Leon Draisaitl, a forward for the Edmonton Oilers and a prominent figure in the team, scored a goal just 23 seconds into the match. This rapid goal set the tone for the game, demonstrating the team's potential despite prior doubts about their performance under head coach Harold Kreis.

The game was characterized by its competitive spirit, with Denmark initially equalizing the score. However, Germany's resilience showed as they regained the lead, scoring two more goals in the second period. This victory serves not only to boost the confidence of the German team but also showcases Draisaitl's exceptional skills and leadership, as he played a crucial role in the match after a significant hiatus from the national team.

As the tournament unfolds in Milan and Cortina, this win is a promising start for Germany, who aim to build on this momentum in future matches. The liveblog coverage continues to provide updates on various Olympic events, highlighting stories like the Ukrainian skeleton athlete's appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport and other competitive highlights, setting the stage for a thrilling Olympic experience ahead.