The
2026 Krakow Trophy got underway with a fascinating
clash between debutants Stiftung Wadentest of
Germany and the reigning champions, DZ Fennecs
of Poland. With six teams competing in a single
round-robin group, every fixture carried significant
importance, and DZ Fennecs were looking to begin
their title defence with a statement of intent.
For Stiftung Wadentest, meanwhile, this was
their first taste of competition in the tournament
and a chance to announce themselves on the European
stage.
DZ
Fennecs started brightly and soon found the
breakthrough. Hichem Benhallima opened the scoring
to put the Polish side 1-0 ahead. Stiftung Wadentest
remained competitive, but DZ Fennecs were showing
the quality and confidence that comes with being
defending champions. They doubled their advantage
when Rafik Chabane found the net, giving the
Polish team a 2-0 lead. Both goals were very
well taken, and Stiftung Wadentest had a difficult
challenge on their hands.
The
German debutants went into half-time 2-0 down
and needed a response after the interval. However,
DZ Fennecs continued to control proceedings
and were able to extend their advantage. Benhallima
was on target again, scoring his second goal
of the game to make it 3-0 and putting the defending
champions firmly in command. There was to be
no way back for Stiftung Wadentest, as DZ Fennecs
comfortably saw out the remainder of the game
to secure a 3-0 victory. It was an impressive
opening performance from the defending champions,
with Benhallima's brace and Chabane's goal providing
the perfect platform for their title defence.
For Stiftung Wadentest, there will be plenty
to take from their debut, but they face an early
battle to get points on the board in a group
where every result could prove crucial.
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