Dream Nations Cup 2025 Recap

History Made at the 2025 Dream Nations Cup: Egypt’s Women Capture Gold in Overtime Thriller

East Rutherford, NJ – May 28, 2025

The 2025 Dream Nations Cup, presented by CCM, returned for its highly anticipated second edition, bringing together emerging ice hockey nations from around the globe. Held at The Rink at American Dream in East Rutherford, New Jersey, the tournament once again celebrated diversity, passion, and the rapid growth of hockey in non-traditional markets.

Tournament Director Rob Ruszala, speaking to NHL.com ahead of last year’s inaugural event, summed up the mission:

“We’re using this opportunity to create a stage for these smaller, developing programs to show that they’re serious about hockey and committed to growing the sport.”

That vision expanded in 2025, with the tournament featuring 16 teams from 12 different nations, divided across two men’s divisions and one women’s division.

Spotlight on Women’s Hockey: Egypt Stuns in Historic Run

One of the most compelling storylines of the 2025 tournament unfolded in the women’s division, where Team Egypt delivered a performance that was both historic and inspiring.

Making their second appearance at the Dream Nations Cup, Egypt built on their debut from last year—when they earned a bronze medal in women’s play and finished fourth in the men’s bracket. This year, they returned with confidence and determination.

After tying Lebanon (who would go on to win bronze) and defeating both South Korea and the Netherlands, Egypt advanced to the semifinals. There, they edged Puerto Rico 4–3 in a dramatic overtime win, setting the stage for a championship matchup against Team Caribbean, who entered the final undefeated and looking to avenge their runner-up finish in 2024.

The final was a tightly contested, high-energy battle. In overtime, with Egypt shorthanded, Mila Cicarciello sealed the game—and the gold medal—with her third goal of the night. Her game-winner was a moment of pure magic, giving Egypt its first women’s championship in Dream Nations Cup history.

Cicarciello led the tournament with eight goals and six assists in five games, while teammate Rose Dawod Lipari followed closely behind, tallying seven goals and three assists—cementing the duo as the tournament’s most dynamic offensive force.

Memorable Moments Across the Men’s Divisions

The men’s side also delivered on drama and milestones. In Division II, Team Caribbean secured its first men’s medal, defeating Brazil 5–4 in a thrilling championship. DeWight Singleton recorded a hat trick and an assist, playing the hero for the Caribbean squad.

In the Division II third-place game, Pakistan celebrated a historic achievement, winning their first medal ever in international competition with a victory over Mexico. Standout performances from Jordyn Mughal, Trystan Muhal, and Colin Craig, each contributing four points, drove Pakistan to the podium.

Division I was no less eventful. Team Armenia, runners-up in 2024, returned with fire but fell short again—this time to a surging Team Central America in the final. Central America advanced with a tight 4–3 win over Egypt in the semis and then dominated the final with a 6–1 win over Armenia.

Jaylen Mendez lit up the scoreboard with four goals and an assist, while goaltender Ricardo Odria made 31 saves to backstop Central America to their first Dream Nations Cup title.

Beyond the Ice: A Vision for the Future

The Dream Nations Cup continues to be more than just a hockey tournament—it’s a launchpad for programs working toward international recognition, IIHF membership, and broader participation. Many teams face challenges, from limited ice facilities to funding and equipment shortages.

Despite these hurdles, they remain focused on the future. Lee Elias, head coach of Puerto Rico’s women’s team, summed up the shared ambition:

“Our goal is to get to the IIHF World Championship and win a gold medal.”

Each team’s journey reflects a broader mission to grow the game within their communities. Events like the Dream Nations Cup play a crucial role in gaining visibility, attracting investment, and building a foundation for long-term development.

Photo Credits: Mike Young (@360droneshots)