The Czech Republic qualified for the quarter-finals of the World Cup in Finland by defeating the United States (1-0), on a goal by Matej Blümel in the 7th.
After their initial defeat against Austria, the Czechs have chained a 3rd success in a row, thanks in particular to an iron defense against Latvia as well as against Norway and the United States. If Switzerland finishes top of Group A – a single point would be enough for them against Germany on Tuesday – they will face the United States or Latvia in the quarterfinals on Thursday.
The Americans only need one point (against Norway) to secure the last place for the quarter-finals, or failing that, a victory for Sweden against Latvia. In Group A, Italy are relegated, after losing 5-2 against Kazakhstan. Already last year, the Transalpins finished last at the World Cup in Riga, but there was no relegation.
Denmark’s historic success
Denmark created a big surprise by beating Canada for the first time in its history. The men of Heinz Ehlers, the former coach of Langnau, Bienne and Lausanne in particular, won 3-2. Despite its defeat, Canada is guaranteed to qualify while Denmark will have to make at least 1 point against Slovakia.
ats/bur
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Britain goes down, Austria escapes
In group B, it is Great Britain who go downstairs. Austria under Swiss coach Roger Bader saved their skin in the top flight by beating the British 5-3, thanks to 4 goals in 14′ in the final third. The Austrians, with legendary ex-Davos coach Arno del Curto as assistant coach, trailed 3-1 after two periods.