Germany stunned the United States by scoring a late equalizer and then clinching the game in overtime on Saturday in the semifinals of the ice hockey world championship. Frederik Tiffels scored the winning goal with just 2:28 left to give Germany a 4-3 victory over the Americans. The Germans reached the final for the first time since 1992 when the playoff format was introduced at the world championship.
The U.S. had taken a 2-0 lead early in the game with goals from Alex Tuch and Rocco Grimaldi, but Germany responded with goals from Tiffels and Maksymilian Szuber in the opening period to tie the game at 2-2. Michael Eyssimont put the U.S. ahead again with a rebound midway through the second period, but Germany’s Marcel Noebels equalized with a backhand shot with just 1:23 remaining in the third period to force overtime. The Germans pulled goaltender Mathias Niederberger when they were 3-2 down late in the third period, which paid off in the end. The U.S. outshot the Germans 33-26, but it was not enough to win the game.
Canada Edges Latvia in Semi-finals
Canada defeated Latvia 4-2 in the other semi-final, setting up a final clash with Germany. Teenage forward Adam Fantilli scored the go-ahead goal for Canada, which proved crucial in securing their victory. The 18-year-old is expected to be one of the top picks in the upcoming NHL draft.
Latvia took the lead early in the game with a rebound goal from Dans Locmelis, but Canada responded with a one-timer from Samuel Blais to tie the game at 1-1. Rudolfs Balcers restored Latvia’s lead with a goal from the left circle only 1:06 later. Jack Quinn leveled the score 45 seconds into the final period when his shot was deflected into the net from the mask of goaltender Arturs Silovs.
Fantilli then scored the go-ahead goal with 11:04 to go, fooling a defenseman before netting his first goal of the tournament. Samuel Blais, Jack Quinn, and Scott Laughton also scored for Canada, while their goaltender Sam Montembeault made 20 saves. Canada had to come from a goal down twice to reach their fourth straight final.
Germany and Canada to Face Off in the Final
Germany and Canada will now face off in the final of the ice hockey world championship. Germany’s victory in the semifinals was a huge upset, especially considering they had not reached the final since 1992. The final will be an exciting clash between two strong teams, and it remains to be seen who will come out on top. Both teams have proven themselves to be worthy finalists, and the game is sure to be a thrilling one.
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