Norway stun Czechs to qualify for first World Championhip quarter-final in 14 years

Norway's Martin Ronnild, left, scores to 3-1 against Czechia's goaltender Dominik Pavlat
Norway's Martin Ronnild, left, scores to 3-1 against Czechia's goaltender Dominik PavlatCredit: PETER SCHNEIDER / EPA / Profimedia

After their sensational win against Scandinavian rivals, Sweden, Norway on Monday continued their fairytale run at the Ice Hockey World Championships when they defeated the Czech Republic 4-1 to qualify for their first quarter-final in the tournament for 14 years.

The only other victory for Norway over Czechia came in 2010, and Norway had never scored four goals against the Czechs before today.

Both teams will also be in action tomorrow on the final day of the preliminary round. The Czechs will face Canada in an eagerly anticipated clash, while a Norwegian win against Denmark will give them second place in the group and a potentially easier matchup in the playoffs.

Norway went into the clash brimming with confidence after their sensational win against Sweden and got off to a perfect start with two goals within the space of seven minutes to take a comfortable 2-0 lead against the Czech Republic

Havard Ostrem Salsten scored the opening goal with 2:59 gone on the clock when he intercepted an unwise pass from Filip Hronek and fired a shot under the glove of Dominik Pavlat.

The early lead further boosted morale in the Norwegian squad, and four minutes later, they doubled their lead by converting a 2-on-1 as Michael Brandsegg-Nygard collected a pass from Petter Vesterheim to steer the puck past Pavlat.

The Czech then cut the deficit at 15:47in the first period when Jaroslav Chmelar launched a floating shot past Henrik Haukeland to get the favorites back into the game. 

The second period turned into a tight-checking affair as the Norwegians defended well, not allowing the Czechs to skate into dangerous areas, and the Norwegians then increased the misery for Radim Rulík's side when Martin Ronnild scored a tap-in at 8:10 in the third period. 

Norway put the icing on the cake when Kristian Ostby launched a high shot over the glove of Pavlat at 14:17 to make it 4-1.

Chances are you’re about to lose.

For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au