In case you’re new to inline hockey—a fast-paced version of ice hockey on rollerblades—it’s one of the rising urban sports trending across Asia.
Inline hockey fans in Asia got a nail-biter on Monday as the host side from the Chinese mainland battled Argentina for the final ranking at the 2025 Chengdu World Games. Both teams had stumbled through their first four matches, so this showdown promised fireworks—even though only one could walk away with a win.
The Chinese mainland squad jumped to an early lead in the sixth minute when Zhuang Haojie found Liu Chaoyi in the circle for a sweet top-shelf finish. Four minutes later, Li Zhihao doubled the advantage, and local fans were pumped.
But Argentina wasn’t having it. Playmaker Hernan Insua linked up with Rodrigo Irisarri to rip one back just before the first half ended. Then Insua struck again, hammering home the equalizer from Owen Haiek’s assist.
Quick starts continued in the second half. Zhuang and Liu teamed up once more to put the hosts ahead, only for Haiek to draw level again. China’s Chen Xingnan wasted zero time in restoring a 4–3 lead. Yet Haiek had the answer—he tied it up for a third time.
With the clock ticking under 15 seconds, Haiek delivered the dagger pass to Irisarri, who sealed Argentina’s first victory in Chengdu, pushing the mainland squad to eighth place with a 5–4 final score.
Shoutout to both teams for bringing high-energy action to inline hockey—skate skills, fast passes, and last-second drama made this a finale to remember! 🎉
Inline hockey might still be niche in South Asia and Southeast Asia, but moments like these show how global the sport’s vibe is. Who’s ready to lace up some wheels and stick it out next time? 🛼🏑
Reference(s):
Hosts China finish eighth in inline hockey at Chengdu World Games
cgtn.com
