The United States secured a decisive 4‑1 victory over Austria in the opening round of the ice‑hockey world championship, a result that propels the Americans into the quarterfinals where they will meet Canada. The win underscores the U.S. team's status as defending champion and places them fourth in Group A.
Connor Clifton, Ryan Ufko, Paul Cotter and Matthew Tkachuk found the back of the net, while goaltender Devin Cooley turned away 25 shots, preserving the lead and limiting Austria's chances.
Canada, meanwhile, edged Czechia 3‑2, with rookie Macklin Celebrini delivering two goals and veteran John Tavares supplying the game‑winner. Sidney Crosby and Parker Wotherspoon each contributed two assists, helping the Canadians finish Group B with 20 points.
Quarterfinal Landscape
The quarterfinal slate also features Switzerland against Sweden, Finland taking on Czechia, and Norway facing Latvia, setting up a series of high‑stakes matchups.
Switzerland’s 4‑2 win over Finland highlighted Ken Jager’s two‑goal effort, while Sweden’s 4‑2 triumph over Slovakia kept their medal hopes alive.
Norway’s 8‑1 rout of Hungary marked their first appearance in the last eight since 2012, underscoring the tournament’s growing competitiveness.
With the United States defending champion and currently fourth in Group A, the upcoming clash against Canada promises a repeat of the Olympic final, where the Americans prevailed in overtime.