The Czech Republic beat Sweden 2-1 in the Junior WC
David Jiricek equalized with 39 seconds left in regulation, Jiri Kulich scored late in overtime and the Czech Republic shocked Sweden 2-1 on Wednesday to advance to the world junior hockey title game.
The Czech Republic will face the winner of the nighttime semifinal between the USA and Canada. The Czechs reached the final for the first time since they won back-to-back titles in 2000 and 2001.
“I said before the tournament that we have one of the best teams here,” said excited Czech forward Jakub Brabenec. “One of the best Czech teams in 20 years. I think.”
Buffalo first-round pick Kulich fended off a penalty kick, cut from the right side to the opener and lifted the puck over goaltender Carl Lindbom’s right shoulder with 50 seconds left in the 10-minute overtime period.
“It was amazing, all the emotions,” said Czech forward Matyas Sapovaliv. “We were so excited. After 20 years for the Czech Republic, it’s going to be amazing. We’ll see if it’s Canada or the USA, but I’m excited. I’d probably laugh if you told me before the tournament that we’d be playing for gold! “
CZECH REPUBLIC IS PLAYING FOR GOLD FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE 2001!!!
🇨🇿 @narodnitym wins the semi-final in overtime over 🇸🇪 @Trekronorse as @Kulda151 is the hero. #WorldJuniors #CZESWE pic.twitter.com/EtkhW34Bqb
— IIHF (@IIHFHockey) January 4, 2023
In regulation with goalkeeper Tomas Suchanek off for an extra striker, Jiricek ripped a one-timer past Lindbom from the left point.
Suchanek made 21 saves and only allowed Ludvig Jansson’s goal in the second period. Lindbom stopped 29 shots.
The Czechs now have 35 goals, more than any of their World Juniors except 1995 (43 goals in seven games). Whichever North American nation they face in the finals, they will need all the firepower they have.