It’s hot. Very hot. With temperatures well above what’s typical for continental Europe, our men’s national team (“Helvetic Bears”) faced off against the Italian national team (“Blue Gladiators”). As preparation for the upcoming EH Qualifiers in Rome (July 9–12, 2026), we couldn’t have asked for a better sparring partner than Italy.

And so, on Saturday, not only were the temperatures record-breaking, but the first match between Switzerland and Italy was also a high-octane affair, with both teams showcasing hockey at its finest. Although the visitors set the pace, the “Helvetic Bears” showed fighting spirit and kept coming back: 0–1, 1–1, 1–2, 1–3, 2–3, and finally 3–3. It was a heated, thrilling, and absolutely must-see hockey match from both teams.

In the second match the next day, it initially looked like a continuation of the balance of power from the previous day’s game. But after two goals by the “Blue Gladiators,” the “Helvetic Bears” appeared somewhat unsettled, leading to an increase in mistakes and miscommunications among the Swiss team. The “Blue Gladiators” didn’t let these opportunities go to waste and went on to score 3, 4, and ultimately even 5 goals to none. Whether it was the heat or the Italian team’s rather physical style of play, the “Helvetic Bears” were unable to find a way to keep up with the “Blue Gladiators” on the second day.

 

“Despite everything, these were two very instructive days for us,” said Jair Levie, Head of Competitive Sports and men’s national team coach. “Italy is a strong team, and the two exhibition games clearly showed us what we need to work on as a team.”