Every year as the World Juniors tournament begins, all eyes are on Sweden as they attempt to keep their incredible streak of 51 straight wins in the preliminary round alive. With their roster hammered hard by the COVID-19 pandemic and a hungry Czech Republic side in front of them, the setting was right for a potential upset.
The Czechs looked extremely dangerous in their warm up game against Slovakia, with their stars like Jan Mysak, Jaromir Pytlik, and Pavel Novak playing big roles. The team is without forward Adam Raska who is serving a one game suspension for a hit from behind in the pre-tournament game against Slovakia.