Sweden undoubtedly to semi-finals – 08.12.2016

Another quarterfinal battle held this Thursday in Riga. Sweden had no problems with Germany and jumped into semi-finals with 11-0 (2-0, 5-0, 4-0) win.

Germany reached the quarterfinals by an amazing buzzer beater goal from Ramon Ibold. Earlier in the  group stage the Germans had no chance against Switzerland and Finland. Sweden is one of the top three teams in this tournament who has already won all their matches. Starting the first period the Swedes began domination everywhere at Arena Riga. A massive group of Swedish supporters waited for their team´s first goal only for five minutes. When 12 minutes was played, Alexander Carlstom scored his second one. Before that Germany had some small chances to make the game tied. First 20 minutes ended with 2-0 for Sweden.

The defending champions slowly widened their advantage in the second period. They managed to score only one goal in the first 10 minutes. Meanwhile on the other side of the rink, the Germans were for a few times close to take it home. After failing to score from good opportunities, Sweden finally brought the ball into the net when there was 34:58 played. They did it again immediately after only 10 seconds. Goalkeeper Mike Dietz was like a real MVP for Germany making 33 saves in the first 40 minutes. 

There were only yellow and blue colors this night at Arena Riga. The Scandinavian team undoubtedly dominated in the third period as well. Sweden scored just four more goals and won this match 11-0. Sweden are through to the semi-finals where they will meet the winner of the match between Switzerland and Norway. Germany continues the tournament fighting for 5th place and still have good chance to qualify for the World Games.