Dec 31, 2021
Russia snaps Sweden's 54-game preliminary round winning streak
Sweden's 54-game preliminary round winning streak at the World Juniors came to an end on Wednesday night with a 4-3 overtime loss to Russia in Group B. Sweden hadn't lost in the opening round since Dec. 31, 2006.
The Canadian Press
EDMONTON — Russia snapped Sweden's extended win streak at the world junior hockey championship Wednesday, clinching a 4-3 overtime victory in Edmonton.
Marat Khusnutdinov scored the game winner with just 5.6 seconds left in extra time.
Yegor Afanasiev, Rodion Amirov and Kirill Kirsanov all scored in regulation and Russia's record improved to 2-1-0-1 (wins, overtime wins, overtime losses, losses).
Sweden (2-0-1-0) forced the three-on-three overtime when, with a minute left on the clock, New Jersey Devils prospect Alexander Holtz released a rocket of a shot that bounced off the shin of Noel Gunler and into the Russian net.
Holtz and Vancouver Canucks prospect Arvid Costmar also scored in regulation.
Sweden went into Wednesday's game having won 54 straight in group play at the tournament.
The Swedes will face the U.S. in a final preliminary round game on Thursday. Russia will play in the quarterfinals Saturday.