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The Slovaks recorded a big surprise right from the start! They shocked the Americans with five goals and now draw attention to themselves. Can they continue to the knockout stage? If so, it would be their first Hlinka Gretzky Cup semi-final since 2000.
Penalties: 2:5. PP goals: 3:0. SH goals: 0:0.
Referees: Baluška, Konc – Kacej, Synek.
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Report
The host team did not wait for anything. Immediately after 41 seconds, Peter Repčík froze the Americans on a powerplay with a quick rebound behind Szyszka's back. Just a minute later, Dalibor Dvorský increased th lead to 2-0 on a delayed penalty.
But that was not all! Ninety seconds later, Juraj Slafkovský scored on a breakaway and the USA was on its knees! Although the rest of the first period was balanced, the poor start left its mark on the Americans.
At 21:20, Dalibor Dvorský scored another powerplay goal. The USA showed its strength in the following minutes. Zama Plante and Johan Aegerter changed the score to 4-2 and the Americans could still hope for a successful ending.
However, this was not allowed by Dalibor Dvorský, who completed a hattrick on another powerplay! The remaining 15 minutes were calm for the Slovaks, who could then celebrate their first win at the tournament.
Reactions
Ivan Feneš, coach of Slovakia U18: "The basis of the victory was an excellent goalkeeper and a great team performance. Our powerplays worked perfectly, our guys confirmed that they belong among the world elite. This is how we want them to play for Slovakia. The boys showed who they truly are, and they showed top hockey to the fans."