A goal with eleven seconds left ends Canada’s tournament

Canada had the chance to secure its place in the semi-finals today.

However, they had to beat the Czech Republic in a match that looked a little easy…

But the Canadians quickly realized that they shouldn’t take their opponents lightly. Why do I say that?

Because after the first twenty minutes, it was 2-0 in favor of the Czechs:

The first half was clearly in the Czech Republic’s favor.

Everyone figured it would take a spark to see Canada back in the game, and that’s exactly what happened when Matthew Wood scored on a breakaway to cut the opponent’s lead to just one goal :

In the second period, Canada really responded better, and we really felt that the goal scored by Wood, a Nashville Predators prospect, was a morale booster for the guys.

Jake Furlong scored late in the frame to tie the game. The score was 2-2 when both clubs retired to the locker room:

Jake Furlong ties the score late in the 2nd period, it’s 2-2!!! pic.twitter.com/LpbmCuWTuF

– RDS (@RDSca) January 2, 2024

Throughout the game, especially in the third period, Owen Beck’s trio was the most threatening.

Without making too much noise, the Canadian prospect is having a good tournament because he’s fulfilling his role wonderfully. He keeps things simple and does what he does best on the ice, which is disrupt opponents with his intensity.

The third period was exciting because Canada buzzed around the opposition’s territory for most of the period.

And then…

The Czech Republic scored with eleven seconds left to run away with the win. Such a disappointing moment for Canada:

So Canada’s tournament comes to a cruel and dramatic end… But that’s what the World Junior Hockey Championship is all about.

Extended

The Czech Republic is through to the semi-finals. It will have to beat Finland if it wants to book its place in the grand final, which takes place on January 5.