U.S., Sweden, and Finland Also Advance to Semifinals
The excitement continues at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship in Ottawa as the quarterfinals delivered intense matchups and surprising results. Czechia, the United States, Sweden, and Finland have advanced to the semifinals, set to take place on Saturday, with the championship game scheduled for Sunday.
Czechia Triumphs Over Canada with Dramatic Late Power-Play GoalCzechia 4, Canada 3
Adam Jecho (Edmonton Oilers) scored a clutch power-play goal with just 40 seconds left, propelling Czechia past Canada at the Canadian Tire Centre. This victory marks the second consecutive year Czechia has eliminated Canada in the quarterfinals.
Czechia capitalized on a critical penalty against Canada’s Andrew Gibson (kneeing) late in the third period. Jecho’s goal, assisted by Adam Jiricek (St. Louis Blues), came from the left face-off circle after a blocked shot by Ethan Gauthier (Tampa Bay Lightning). Petr Sikora (Washington Capitals), Jakub Stancl (Blues), and Eduard Sale (Seattle Kraken) also contributed goals, with Michal Hrabal (Utah Hockey Club) making 29 saves in net.
“It’s special to beat Canada on their home turf,” said Sale. “The team played with resilience, and our goalie was exceptional.”
United States Cruises Past Switzerland with Offensive Onslaught
United States 7, Switzerland 2
James Hagens and Ryan Leonard each scored twice as the United States overwhelmed Switzerland to secure a semifinal berth. Gabe Perreault (New York Rangers) tallied three assists, while goalie Hampton Slukynsky (Los Angeles Kings) made 17 saves.
The U.S. dominated the first period, scoring four goals to set the tone. The American squad, defending champions, remains undefeated against Switzerland in 27 games at the World Juniors.
Sweden Holds Off Latvia’s Rally to Advance
Sweden 3, Latvia 2
David Edstrom (Nashville Predators) scored and Sweden weathered a late comeback attempt from Latvia to claim a semifinal spot. Swedish goalie Melker Thelin (Utah Hockey Club) made 11 saves, while Eriks Mateiko’s two goals and Linards Feldbergs’ stellar 47-save performance highlighted Latvia’s spirited effort.
Finland Survives Slovakia’s Push in Quarterfinal WinFinland 5, Slovakia 3
Jesse Nurmi (New York Islanders) shined with two goals and an assist, leading Finland to victory over Slovakia. Despite being outshot 36-18, Finland’s early three-goal lead and clutch goaltending by Petteri Rimpinen (2025 NHL Draft eligible) secured their semifinal spot.
Germany Secures Top Division Spot, Defeats Kazakhstan
Germany 4, Kazakhstan 3 (Relegation Game)
Germany avoided relegation with a 4-3 win over Kazakhstan, thanks to Julius Sumpf’s tiebreaking power-play goal in the third period. Kazakhstan will compete in Division I Group A in 2026 after narrowly missing a top-division stay.