When Vladimir Putin scored eight goals in an exhibition game

During the gala match of the Night Hockey League in 2019, Russian president Vladimir Putin scored eight goals while playing alongside certain NHL legends.

Despite his eight goals, the time when Putin slipped on the rink while taking a victory lap is what stood out on the night. Some of the players quickly came to his rescue and Putin shrugged off the fall and got back on his skates again.

Putin was a member of the Legends team, which included Russian hockey stars Slava Fetisov and Pavel Bure. Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu scored three goals for his team.

Vladimir Putin played center in his favorite No. 11 jersey. The president faced no opposition as every other player was playing at a slow pace. Taking the opportunity, he scored one goal after another with ease. He was the top scorer in the game with a total of eight goals.

In the process, Putin surpassed his seven-goal tally from 2018, while matching his eight from 2015.

The 2015 tournament was packed with celebrity faces and most of the players were reputed men from either Russia’s government or wealthy families. The list of players included big names such as Gennady Timchenko and Vladimir Potanin.