Match Report
Nikko Ice Bucks beat Kobe Stars 5:2 on 4 October 2026 in the Asian Hockey League. The away side took all three points and moved further clear of the bottom of the table, while the hosts remain winless after six games.
The visitors arrived with momentum. They had won the previous meeting 5:1 the day before, and this time they went for the jugular from the opening period. Kobe looked to hang in there but could not contain the pace. By then it was clear Nikko were the better side, and the scoreline reflected that.
There is no value left at that number for Kobe. They sit in sixth place with six games played, zero wins, zero draws, five losses, and zero points. Nikko occupy second after six matches, four victories, two defeats, and still zero points on the board. The gap between them feels wider now.
The away team's recent form showed they are closing in on a deal for confidence. They beat Kobe 5:1 on 3 October, then lost 1:2 to Hleng Anyang on 21 September before winning three straight against various opponents. Kobe have not found a way through in five attempts. They drew 1:5, 3:4, 1:4, 2:6, and 2:3 across those fixtures.
The result leaves Kobe at the foot of the standings with nothing to show for their efforts so far. Nikko extend their lead over the bottom half and keep their own position in sight. The visitors have made the difference in every meeting this season and there is no sign of that changing.
