Switzerland and Czech Republic both control their own destiny when they face off on Monday morning.
The Swiss have gotten off to a surprising start in the tournament by picking up points in all three matches. Their tournament got off to a tremendous 7-2 win over Latvia (the most potent offensive display of Group A thus far) and the team continued to show their ability to compete with the best when they pushed Sweden to the limit in a 3-2 shootout loss. In their ensuing game, they also pushed Finland to the shootout in a 5-4 loss. In that match the Swiss got off to a furious start with two first period goals from Lino Martschini and Sven Andrighetto. The Finnish tied the score in the second but the Swiss took another two goal lead in the third when Alessio Bertaggia and Dario Simion each tallied. The Finnish managed to tie the score late in the game however, and Switzerland's chances of taking three points evaporated. The team has been strong but as evidenced in the match against Finland and Sweden, they have a penchant for blowing leads. This must be addressed before they take on the Czechs.
The Czech Republic got off to a predictably poor start in the tournament at the hands of Sweden. The 4-1 loss was followed by a surprising 3-1 win over Finland. They then defeated Latvia 4-2 to claim the second spot in Group A.
In order for the Swiss to advance they need a win over the Czechs. Any kind of win will do for Switzerland as an overtime win would tie them with the Czechs in points. However, the first tiebreaker is head-to-head results, which Switzerland would win. A loss in regulation eliminates them and a loss in overtime or the shootout requires a Swedish win over Finland in regulation. The Czechs need to win to pass. A regulation or overtime loss still puts them through if Sweden wins in regulations or overtime.
Predictions: Switzerland continues to be the surprise of the tournament and wins this match 4-3.
Start Time 2:30 AM EST
TV: TSN
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