Switzerland took defending Champion Sweden to the limit on Friday morning and has established itself as a contender in Group A.
One day after destroying Latvia 7-2, Switzerland jumped out to a 1-0 lead after one period on Sweden. Swiss player Eliot Antonietti scored 14:24 into the first. Sweden tied it halfway through the second, but Mike Kunzle added a second Swiss goal to regain the lead. Sweden eventually tied it in the third but was unable to muster anything in overtime thanks to tremendous Swiss defending. They lost in the shootout, but the impact of the match did more to demonstrate their abilities than Sweden's weaknesses.
Finland meanwhile hit a bump on Friday when they were stunned by a surprising Czech Republic squad. The Finnish had a prime chance to jump into first place, but instead finished the day in fourth. The Czechs blitzed Finland for two goals in the opening frame before Teuro Teravainen scored at 2:28 of the second to give them some hope. However, the equalizer never came and Finland wound up losing all three points to the Czechs.
This match is a must win for both sides as Finland will have to face Sweden on Monday while Switzerland takes on the surprising Czech Republic. A regulation win for Switzerland essentially qualifies them for the final round while Finland must win their two remaining matches and get some help from Czechs on Monday against the Switzerland. The problem is that they face off against Sweden to end their campaign, making a win over Switzerland obligatory if they have any hopes of the quarterfinals.
Predictions: Finland will win this, but in overtime. 3-2 Finland in OT.
Start Time: 2:30 AM EST
TV Info: TSN
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