Quarterfinal landscape takes shape
Latvia announced its arrival in the knockout stage with a commanding 8‑1 win against Hungary, a result that not only secured third place in Group A but also locked the Latvians into the quarterfinals. The performance showcased a balanced attack and a defensive clamp that left the Hungarian side scrambling for answers.
The group’s final standings will be decided in the upcoming matches between Switzerland and Finland, each eyeing the top spot. Meanwhile, the United States sits on the cusp of advancement; a victory over Austria would guarantee their passage to the last eight.
Norway also booked its place in the quarterfinals after edging Denmark in overtime, a result that underscored the competitive nature of the tournament’s lower tier. Sweden, meanwhile, faced a must‑win situation against Slovakia, knowing that anything less could see them exit the competition early.
All quarterfinal fixtures are slated for Thursday, promising a slate of high‑stakes games that will determine the semifinal lineup. Fans can expect a blend of offensive firepower and defensive resilience as teams vie for the championship.