Sweden Kicks Off IIHF Worlds with Authority, blanking Slovakia 5-0
Swedish Shutout in Home Opener
Sweden’sinks to a sold-out, yellow-clad crowd at Avicii Arena, the hosts celebating an impressive 5-0 victory over Slovakia in the opening game of the IIHF World Championship, equaling their best start to the tournament.
Jacob Markstrom’s Shutout
In a game featuring only 35 shots, Jacob Markstrom stopped all 15 Slovakia shot to record the shutout. The third period registered the fewest shots by both teams in a period, tying a 1978 record.
Sweden’s Dominance
Free-scoring Sweden notched three goals in the first period and never looked back. They have a commanding 10-1 record when hosting the opener and last lost in 2013. Slovakia’s last win over Sweden in World Championships was in 2006.
We didn’t start flawlessly, but we got into the game and scored big goals. It’s great to start with a win.
We need to get better. We can’t make simple mistakes. We have to figure out how to win games.
Bounce of the Puck
An early chance for Milos Roman went begging when Markstrom made a near-post save, denying Slovakia’s initial threat. Later, a Sykora shot wriggled through Markstrom’s equipment and rolled wide.
Sweden’s Scoring Spree
Timo Meier’s assist to Simon Edvinsson opened the scoring for Sweden, followed by goals from Mikael Backlund, Leo Carlsson, and Jonas Brodin. Elias Lindholm‘s late second-period strike and Mika Zibanejad’s third-period goal sealed the hosts’ win.
Looking Ahead
With a strong opening game, Sweden looks poised to challenge for the title. Their next match is yet to be announced.
Did you know?
Sweden is currently on a nine-game winning streak in IIHF World Championship openers.
FAQs
- When was the last time Slovakia beat Sweden in a World Championship?
- 2006
- How many shots were taken in the third period?
- Four (Sweden 4, Slovakia 1)
For more updates on Sweden’s World Championship campaign, be sure to check back to 247sports.news.