Host country Czech Republic is on a gold mission at the Ice Hockey World Championship. With the help of the home fans in Prague, head coach Radim Rulik’s team wants to win the title for the first time since 2010.
On Saturday (2:20 p.m., live on ORF Sport + and in the live stream), the Swedes, who are still unbeaten in this tournament, will stand in their way. In the second semifinal, defending champions Canada will face the team from Switzerland (6:20 p.m., from 7:30 p.m. live on ORF Sport + and in the live stream).
Hosts with starting difficulties
The Czech Republic needed a little time to get going at the home event. In the group phase, they suffered two narrow defeats against Canada (3:4 after extra time) and Switzerland (1:2 after extra time). The six-time world champions received reinforcements just in time for the quarterfinals in the form of an NHL infusion from Boston Bruins pros David Pastrnak and Pavel Zacha. It was the latter who also secured the 1:0 victory against the USA in the round of the last eight with a curious goal.
The “Three Crowns” team, which is in a World Cup semi-final for the first time since winning the title in 2018, has played a strong tournament so far. In the quarter-finals, however, the blue and yellows only just “survived” their neighbors Finland with a 2-1 win after extra time.
Canada is favourite against Switzerland
Meanwhile, the Canadians, who are also still undefeated, are the favorites in their duel with Switzerland. In the group phase, the “Maple Leafs” prevailed against the Swiss team, who were playing on equal terms, with a score of 3:2.
The record world champions are in the semifinals for the ninth time in a row, while the Swiss, led by Roman Josi, last made it this far six years ago. Back then, Josi and Co. pulled off a coup against Canada with a 3:2 victory, and the “ice-loving” team ended up taking silver. In the direct World Cup duel, the North Americans are in the lead with ten wins, five defeats and one draw.
More about the 2024 Ice Hockey World Championship in the Czech Republic
