The Ice Hockey World Championship in Riga is becoming more and more a tournament of wonder. Eleven-time world champion Sweden accepted their second embarrassing bankruptcy against an outsider a day after 3: 4 against Denmark with 0: 1 (0: 0, 0: 0, 0: 1) against Belarus. German Nestro (41st) led the newcomer to a first World Cup victory against Trey Kroner.
Defending champions Finland also embarrassed themselves with a 1: 2 (0: 0, 1: 1, 0: 0, 0: 0, 0: 1) after a penalty shoot-out against newly promoted Kazakhstan on Sunday. Nikita Michaelis converted the deciding penalty.
The 26-time title holder Canada had previously suffered a 2–0 defeat to host Latvia, which then lost 3–2 to Kazakhstan. Like Sweden, the twelve-time world champion Czech Republic started with two defeats.
Norway celebrated their first win a day after a 1: 5 defeat against the German national team. The team around Dell players Mathis and Ken Andre Olimb won against Italy 4: 1 (1: 0, 2: 0, 1: 1). Former Krefeld Mathis Tretanus was the match winner with three goals.
In Group A, Slovakia posted their second three – albeit with major problems. After 5: 2 against Belarus, the 2002 World Champion Outsiders struggled against Great Britain until 2: 1 (1: 0, 1: 1, 0: 0). The winning goal was achieved by Robert Lantosi (25th).
Ethan McAllister is a contributor to CA News Ottawa, covering news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. He focuses on clear, accurate reporting and useful information that helps readers stay informed about current affairs and developments that shape their communities. His work highlights relevant stories, emerging trends, and important issues, presenting them in a balanced, accessible, and reader-friendly manner.
