Goals flowed freely on the opening day of the EuroHockey 5s Championship Men 2026 in Walcz, with Poland, Ukraine and Sweden all recording victories. However, it was hosts Poland and an impressive Ukraine side who ended the day tied at the top of the pool on six points, both boasting a remarkable goal difference of +19.

Ukraine opened their campaign in emphatic fashion with a 9-1 victory over Bulgaria. Led by the scoring exploits of Volodymyr Kaplinskyi, the Ukrainians showcased their attacking quality from the outset and quickly underlined their credentials as title contenders. 

Sweden also made a winning start, overcoming Slovakia 8-5 in an entertaining contest. The Swedes were clinical in front of goal and looked well placed after their opening success. 

The home crowd then had plenty to celebrate as Poland produced the performance of the day, defeating Bulgaria 11-2. Waldemar Rataj struck four times as the hosts topped the standings on goal difference after the first round of matches. 

As the evening session unfolded, Poland strengthened their position with a second victory, while Ukraine also maintained their perfect start. Those results left both sides level on six points and a goal difference of +19, setting up a fascinating battle for top spot. Sweden remained firmly in contention in third place, while Slovakia and Bulgaria looked to bounce back on Day 2.

Pool A Standings after Day 1

		GP	W	D	L	GD	Pts
1	Poland	2	2	0	0	+19	6
2	Ukraine	2	2	0	0	+19	6
3	Sweden	2	1	0	1	-7	3
4	Slovakia	2	0	0	2	-14	0
5	Bulgaria	2	0	0	2	-17	0