OTTAWA — Czechia claimed the bronze medal at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship, defeating Sweden 3-2 during a thrilling shootout on Sunday. The match, held at Ottawa's TD Place Arena, was marked by remarkable performances from both teams, culminating in one of the longest shootouts ever recorded.
The game extended beyond regulation time, featuring two goals within the standard 60 minutes plus sudden death overtime. Eduard Sale, serving as Czechia's captain and 2023 first-round pick of the Seattle Kraken, became the standout hero of the encounter. He scored the decisive goal during the 14th round of the shootout, cementing Czechia's victory and ensuring the team’s third consecutive medal at the World Juniors.
Michael Hrabal, the towering goalie at 6-foot-6 and second-round pick of the Arizona Coyotes, played a pivotal role for the Czech team. He demonstrated his skill by stopping 32 shots throughout the match, including several key saves during the shootout. "It’s fun every time I’m on the ice," Hrabal remarked, highlighting his enjoyment and commitment, especially as this game marked the end of his youth national career. Hrabal's performance throughout the tournament left a lasting impression, leading to his recognition as Player of the Game.
The scoring opened early for Czechia, as Jakub Stancl, who led the tournament with goals, netted the first goal on their very first shot just 3:47 minutes in. Following Stancl's opening tally, Sweden responded with balance and energy, gaining equal footing thanks to David Edstrom, who converted on the power play at 12:31.
Czechia regained the lead with Sale’s deft second goal at 9:27 of the second period, but the Swedes displayed resilience, with Edstrom again equalizing to close out the second period with the game tied at 2-2. The back-and-forth scoring showcased each team's ability and determination, setting the stage for the tense overtime.
Despite numerous chances, neither side could capitalize during the five-minute extra session, pushing the game to the dreaded shootout. It was there, on taunt lines of ice, where the tension peaked. Players took turns showcasing their skills, but it took 28 attempts—an IIHF record—before Sale sealed Czechia's fate with his goal. "He’s the player you want to have on your team, not against," Hrabal said of Sale's skill and significance to the team as he clinched the game.
Sweden’s Marcus Gidlof was equally impressive between the pipes, making 30 saves, yet could not deter Sale on this momentous occasion. "It felt like you didn’t have the same energy as in the group stage when we had a lot of energy and everybody was on boards," Edstrom noted, reflecting on Sweden's struggle to maintain momentum after their semifinal loss to Finland just one day prior.
The victory for Czechia marks not only another medal to their name but also signifies their impressive turnaround at the World Juniors since the dissolution of Czechoslovakia, showcasing the growth of the hockey program. They now have earned medals three years running—bronze last year and silver the year before. “It’s definitely big. Great players coming up, but just still need to work hard. There’s a brighter future,” Hrabal commented on the bright prospects for Czech hockey.
Though Sweden aimed to improve from their silver finish last year, they now find themselves on the heels of consecutive disappointments after soaring through the preliminary round undefeated. Edstrom reflected somberly, stating, "It’s tough. It’s small margins. They took the furthest step, which sucks because we wanted the medal."
The next opportunity for these young talents will be at the 2026 World Junior Championship scheduled to take place next year, where Czechia hopes to continue their medal-winning streak, bolstered by today’s experience and historical record. The victory was another chapter solidifying their growing legacy on international ice and for young players like Sale, who demonstrated immense talent and character. "Three medals out of three world juniors is incredible. The NHL is waiting for him," Hrabal expressed, showcasing Czechia's excitement for what is to come.