Sweden crushed Latvia and, in addition to its World Cup record, secured its place in the quarterfinals

Sweden won against Latvia 7:2 on Saturday. The Swedes led 2:0 after the first period, but the Latvians quickly equalized in the second period. However, they then scored three quick goals in quick succession, giving Sweden a world record and securing the victory.

Sweden quickly took the lead

The Swedes turned an active start to the game into the opening goal of the match at 4:50 when Rasmus Dahlin scored from the right side. From a position not typical for a defender, he shot the goalkeeper to the near post.

Two minutes later, the Swedes increased their lead when Dahlin’s teammate scored. He dribbled the puck between the circles and took a swing at it.

A crazy second period offered an equalizer and a record

Latvia didn’t show off in the first period, notching just four shot attempts. But Kaspars Daugavins came up with a quick fix, taking advantage of the confusion in front of Filip Gustavsson to cut the lead.

Latvia didn’t even need half a minute to rejoice in the match from the equaliser. At 23:17, Roberts Mamčics burned everything in front of him.

The Latvian hockey team equalized and regained their good mood for a while. However, the Swedes came with a big pressure, which the opponent could not resist for long. Fabian Zetterlund scored twice in a flurry of goals at 32:59. After his first goal, he scored again after 17 seconds.

Joel Eriksson scored again after another nine minutes and Sweden suddenly led 5:2. Three quick goals fell within 26 seconds, giving the Swedes a new World Cup record.

Sweden had one more shot before the second siren sounded. Marcus Petterson scored at 35:36, sending Elvis Merzlikins to the bench and Eriks Vitols to the crease.

A tough third period produced the only goal

With a clear 6:2 lead, the Swedes entered the final period of the game where most fans didn’t expect Latvia to score and tie the game. As the game progressed, the expectations did not change, moreover, frequent dirty play often marred the game.

The game brought 16 ejections, with Dahlin getting a penalty to end the game in the second period. However, no power play was used.

The Swedes scored one more time with one minute and nine seconds left in the game. Marcus Johansson scored shorthanded to confirm Sweden’s 7:2 victory over Latvia.

The Swedes remain in first place in Group B and remain 100% in the tournament, having not lost a point yet, and are assured of advancing to the quarter-finals. Latvia also has a theoretical chance to qualify.

Source: IIHF, X