First upset at World Hockey Champ
Published: 28 April, 2009, 12:30
AFP Photo / Fabrice Coffrini
In the World Ice Hockey Championship, Latvia pulled off the shock of the day, stunning Sweden in a penalty shootout.
The Tre Kronor side overshot Latvia 40 to 21 in the regulation, but that wasn’t enough as they could only earn a 2-2 draw. In the shootout Latvia had luck on their side – veteran Aleksandrs Nizivijs netted the winner.
Team USA immediately capitalized on Sweden’s loss as they moved to the top of the group after a 6-1 win over Austria, while Finland and the Czech Republic grabbed predictable wins over Denmark and Norway respectively.
Reigning champions Russia take on hosts Switzerland on Tuesday. The winner will finish top of Group B.
Switzerland coach Ralf Kruger admits that Russia is the favorite, but says his side won't be just whipping boys. He hopes a solid defensive play and home crowd support could do the trick against the defending champs.
It will be a case of do-or-die for Germany and France, who play each other on Tuesday.
In addition, Canada play out the top spot in Group A with Slovakia, and Belarus face Hungary.
27.04.2009, 11:02
Russia, Canada continue destroying opponentsDefending champions Russia continue their impressive start to the world ice hockey championships. They defeated France 7-2 in a one sided-contest in Berne on Sunday night. |
28.04.2009, 21:00
Holders Russia keep 100 percent recordWorld Ice Hockey champions Russia have finished top of their group in this year’s competition thanks to a 4-2 win over hosts Switzerland. |
