 Swiss players celebrate another unlikely victory |
Switzerland pulled off a major ice hockey upset by shutting out favourites Canada for a 2-0 win. The Swiss had never beaten Canada in seven previous Olympic meetings, including a record-breaking 33-0 defeat way back in 1924.
But they eclipsed even their previous 3-2 win over the fancied Czech Republic, after coming through an opening 20 minutes of heavy pressure.
Canadian-born Paul di Pietro scored both goals.
He opened his account in the 19th minute, before the Swiss made Canada pay for four consecutive penalties in the second half.
With a five-on-three advantage, Di Pietro hit a second goal from the edge of the left circle with a deflected shot which left net-minder Paul Brodeur with no chance. In other games, former world champions Slovakia stunned the United States 2-1, taking a huge step toward the play-off round.
Slovakia have won all three matches so far to top Group B, while Finland are in the same position in Group A.
MMIX
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