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The semi-finalists from both groups are decided! Canada advances from Group A after its win over Czechia and Finland will also play for medals thanks to the point it earned against Switzerland. From Group B, Sweden and the USA move on to the semi-finals. Slovakia finishes third, while Germany will play for seventh place.
Finland 3:4 (OT) Switzerland (0:0,1:1, 2:2, 0:1)
Switzerland earned a surprise overtime win over Finland in a back-and-forth battle that leaves the Finns’ semi-finals hopes uncertain. After a scoreless first period, Switzerland opened the scoring early in the second period, but Finland quickly equalised and later took a 3:2 lead in the third. The Swiss responded with two quick goals to regain the advantage, only for Finland to force overtime through Rasmus Rinne. In the extra frame, Lennox Hirt’s shot deflected off Sol Fueter and in, giving Switzerland their first win of the tournament.
USA 8:1 Germany (3:0, 2:0, 3:1)
The USA dominated Germany to securea spot in the semi-final, scoring three goals within the first five minutes, with Penner, Harvey, and Hextall setting the tone early. They continued their offensive onslaught in the second and third periods, with goals from Harper, Duskocy, Varga,Zielinski and Harvey. Despite a late consolation goal from Jack Peterka, Germany had no answer for the U.S. attack, which included two goals in a brutal 23-second stretch, sealing a commanding American win in Trenčín.
Slovakia 0:7 Sweden (0:2, 0:2, 0:3)
Sweden continued their dominant run at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup with a commanding victory over Slovakia, securing a spot in the semi-finals. The Swedes built a 4:0 lead over two periods, prompting a Slovak goalie change, but the momentum stayed firmly with the Tre Kronor. They added three more goals in the third, capitalising on Slovak defensive lapses and powerplays. Despite some chances, the hosts couldn’t break through and Sweden finished the group stage unbeaten, while Slovakia will now compete for fifth place overall.
Czechia 0:5 Canada (0:1, 0:0, 0:4)
Canada defeated host nation Czechia in front of a packed crowd in Brno, securing first place in Group A. After a tightly contested and fast-paced first period, Canada struck first through Liam Ruck. Despite a lengthy powerplay and a brief 5-on-3 in the second period, Czechia couldn’t find the net, with Canadian goalie Betts holding strong. The decisive blow came in the third period, where Canada scored four unanswered goals. While the home crowd remained spirited, Czechia struggled offensively and will face Slovakia in a battle for fifth place overall.