US beats Sweden 6-2 to set the final against Switzerland at ice hockey worlds

The United States has secured their spot in the final of the ice hockey world championship after defeating Sweden 6-2 in Stockholm, Sweden. This victory sets them up to face off against Switzerland in the gold medal game on Sunday. The Swiss earned their spot in the final by blanking Denmark 7-0, making it to the gold medal game for the second consecutive year.

The U.S. suffered their only defeat of the tournament at the hands of Switzerland, who shut them out 3-0 during the group stage. However, the Americans were able to bounce back and secure a dominant win against Sweden in the semifinals. Goalie Jeremy Swayman was a key player in the victory, stopping 27 shots to help his team advance to the final.

The last time the United States won the ice hockey world championship was back in 1933. They were also awarded the title in 1960 and 1980 when they won the Olympic tournaments and the worlds did not take place. By reaching the final this year, the U.S. has achieved their best result since earning the silver medal in 1950.

Captain Clayton Keller expressed his excitement about reaching the final, stating, “It’s a good feeling. There’s one more game to win. We’re going to focus on tomorrow.” The U.S. got off to a strong start in the semifinal match against Sweden, jumping to a 2-0 lead in the opening period.

The scoring was led by Brady Skjei and Cutter Gauthier, with Conor Garland and Mikey Eyssimont adding goals in the second period. Despite a late push from Sweden with goals from William Nylander and Elias Lindholm, the U.S. maintained their lead with additional goals from Jackson LaCombe and Shane Pinto.

On the other side of the bracket, Switzerland put on a dominant performance against Denmark, with Nino Niederreiter scoring twice in the first period. The Swiss continued to control the game, with goals from Ken Jager, Denis Malgin, Sandro Schmid, Damien Riat, and Tyler Moy securing their spot in the final.

Switzerland has never won the ice hockey world championship, making Sunday’s final against the United States a historic opportunity for both teams. Meanwhile, Denmark will face Sweden in the bronze medal game, with the chance to secure their first-ever medal at the worlds.