Historic Night for Israeli Hockey: Jerusalem Capitals Edge HC Tel Aviv in Thrilling OT Win at UBS Arena
Hockey history was made at UBS Arena on March 23, 2025, as the Jerusalem Capitals and HC Tel Aviv brought Israeli professional hockey to North America for the first time. In a high-energy, action-packed game, the Capitals clinched a dramatic 7-6 overtime victory, sending the nearly 8,000 fans in attendance into a frenzy. The event marked a monumental milestone for the Israel Elite Hockey League (IEHL) and demonstrated the growing passion for hockey within Israel’s sports community.
A Historic Night in New York
The energy in UBS Arena was electric from the moment the doors opened. Fans, many waving Israeli flags and singing in Hebrew, filled the stands to witness this groundbreaking event. The anticipation had been building for months, with supporters eager to see two of Israel’s top teams battle it out on North American ice.
The pregame ceremonies were as emotional as they were inspiring. One of the most touching moments of the night was the presence of 87-year-old Holocaust survivor Ivan Gluck, who was honored as the Jerusalem Capitals’ honorary captain. His participation served as a poignant reminder of the resilience and strength of the Jewish community, making the game about much more than just hockey.
A Game to Remember
From the very first puck drop, it was clear that this was no ordinary exhibition match. Both teams came out flying, playing a high-paced, aggressive style that kept fans on the edge of their seats. HC Tel Aviv dominated the early stages, peppering Jerusalem’s goaltender with shots and outshooting their opponents 61-57 by the end of the game.
However, the Capitals responded with relentless determination. Led by 16-year-old sensation Nikita Zitserman, who had a breakout performance with a stunning hat trick, Jerusalem fought back at every turn. Zitserman’s quick hands, precise shooting, and fearless play made him one of the standout stars of the night, proving that he is a rising talent to watch in the hockey world.
The game saw numerous lead changes, showcasing the skill, speed, and grit of both teams. As the clock wound down in the third period, Tel Aviv managed to tie the game, forcing a nerve-wracking sudden-death overtime.
The Overtime Thriller
With the crowd on their feet and the tension at its peak, overtime began at a breakneck pace. Both teams had scoring opportunities, but it was Denis Zaychik of the Jerusalem Capitals who became the hero of the night. Finding himself in perfect position, Zaychik buried the game-winning goal past the Tel Aviv netminder, sealing a 7-6 victory and igniting an eruption of cheers from the passionate crowd.
The celebration was one to remember. Players stormed the ice, fans roared, and history had officially been made. The victory was not just for the Jerusalem Capitals but for Israeli hockey as a whole, proving that the sport has a place in the hearts of Jewish fans around the world.
The Impact of the Game
Beyond the excitement of the game itself, the event served a larger purpose. The game was a significant step in the IEHL’s ongoing mission to grow and develop hockey in Israel. By bringing this matchup to UBS Arena, the league showcased the incredible talent within Israeli hockey and helped forge new connections within the global hockey community.
Moreover, the night was a success for the IEHL Gives Program, which aims to bring Jewish athletes to Israel to volunteer and give back to communities in need. The 50/50 raffle, which ran throughout the game, raised additional funds to support this important initiative, with half of the pot going to one lucky fan and the other half being donated to the Friends of Israel Hockey Foundation.
Looking Ahead
The success of this historic game has opened the door for even more opportunities to expand Israeli hockey on the international stage. With growing interest and support from fans, sponsors, and organizations worldwide, the future of the IEHL looks brighter than ever.
For now, the players, coaches, and fans will relish the unforgettable memories from UBS Arena. The Jerusalem Capitals and HC Tel Aviv delivered a spectacular show, proving that Israeli hockey belongs on the global stage. As the IEHL continues to grow, one thing is certain: this is just the beginning for professional hockey in Israel.
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