Czech U18 hockey team stuns US in tournament opener

The Czech under-18 national team pulled off a dramatic upset at the World Championship in Bratislava, defeating the United States 3:2 in overtime.

Goalkeeper Marek Sklenička played a key role in the victory, while Dominik Řípa sealed the win with an individual effort just 12 seconds before the end of overtime. The result ended a 21-game losing streak against the Americans at the U18 World Championships.

The team, coached by Jan Tomajko, will next face Sweden on Thursday at 4pm CET.