Sweden: Siltanews – News Desk
24th May 2025 – (Stockholm) Team USA delivered a commanding performance on Saturday, overpowering co-hosts Sweden 6-2 to secure a coveted spot in the final of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) World Championship. This victory positions the Americans for a shot at their first gold medal in the tournament in over 90 years.
Having claimed Olympic gold in 1960 and 1980, the American team’s last gold medal at the world championship dates back to 1933. Their resounding victory against co-hosts Sweden now propels them to a final clash against either Switzerland or the unexpected contender, Denmark, who are set to compete in the second semifinal later on the same day.
The momentum swung in favor of Team USA early on, as defenseman Brady Skein seized the opportunity at the 6:52 mark of the first period, unleashing a precision shot from the blue line to the left of the goal that found the top-right corner. This initial lead set the tone for the Americans, with Cutter Gauthier further extending their advantage with a well-placed shot that beat Sweden’s goaltender Jacob Markstrom with 2:47 remaining in the first period.
The Swedes struggled to counter the speed and intensity of their opponents, managing just three shots on target in the first 20 minutes as Team USA’s relentless play style stifled their attempts to gain momentum, even during power-play situations.
The Americans continued their dominance in the second period, with Connor Garland and Mikey Eyssimont adding two more goals to their tally. The period concluded amidst a chorus of dissent from the Swedish supporters, displeased with their team’s performance against the formidable American squad.
Although Sweden showcased some resilience with goals from William Nylander and Elias Lindholm early in the third period, closing the gap to 4-2, Team USA swiftly extinguished any hopes of a comeback. A brilliant solo breakaway goal by Jackson Lacombe extended their lead to 5-2, with Shane Pinto sealing the deal by firing into an empty net with just over four minutes remaining.
Reflecting on the victory, Pinto expressed the team’s focus on securing the win rather than being deterred by Sweden’s status as hosts. Looking ahead to the final, the center indicated a strategic approach of monitoring the second semifinal outcome between Switzerland and Denmark, acknowledging the latter’s remarkable upset against Canada earlier in the tournament