Sweden’s junior hockey team has begun its quest for redemption as they kick off the Junior World Championship against Slovakia on December 26, 2023. This matchup, held at TD Place in Ottawa, marks the beginning of another thrilling edition of international junior hockey.
With puck drop scheduled for 18:00 CET, viewers back home can catch the action on Sveriges Television from 17:30, where hosts Dusan Umicevic, Jonas Andersson, and Håkan Loob will set the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating clash. Sweden’s head coach, Magnus Hävelid, is leading the Juniorkronorna for his third time, boasting both experience and success after previously guiding the U18 team to two world titles.
On the opposing side, Slovakia’s head coach, Ivan Fenes, has spent over ten years with the national program and will command his team for the fourth time at this prestigious tournament. The stakes couldn’t be higher, particularly for Sweden, who are eager to atone for their painful loss to the United States last year when they fell 2-6 in the finals. Otto Stenberg, one of the returning players, reflected on the experience, saying, “It’s clear we have strong revenge desire.”
The Juniorkronorna boast several promising talents, ready to take on Slovakia’s star, Dalibor Dvorsky. A former player with ties to Swedish junior hockey, Dvorsky’s skills on the ice make him one to watch. Hävelid described him as “their leader,” illustrating the pivotal role Dvorsky plays for Slovakia. The Swedish side is aware of the challenge Dvorsky poses, especially after Slovakia’s strong advancement to the quarterfinals last year, where they narrowly lost to Finland.
But Sweden is not to be taken lightly; they have plenty of firepower and experience, particularly with Melker Thelin stepping up as the starting goaltender. Thelin was previously part of last year’s Junior World Championship team, where he competed for the top goalie spot. Hävelid’s decision to start him suggests confidence, positioning Thelin as key to Sweden’s aspirations.
Group B for Sweden includes formidable opponents: Kazakhstan, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic. Each matchup will be significant as Sweden navigates through the preliminary rounds. The focus on the first game, though, remains intense. Hävelid emphasized the importance of the first match, stating, “First match in a championship is always special. There’s much to fall in place.”
This year’s competition is set against the backdrop of Slovakia showing impressive growth, with their young players showcasing exceptional talent. Dvorsky, at just 19, already brings considerable experience as he embarks on his fourth Junior World Championship. After being initially left off the preliminary roster, his inclusion as captain was confirmed when the NHL’s St. Louis Blues released him to participate.
Despite Dvorsky's presence, Hävelid acknowledges the grit and determination of the entire Slovakian roster. “They build much on pride to play for their country,” he noted, highlighting the competitive spirit both squads will bring to the ice. Last year, Slovakia came close to stunning Finland, pushing them to the edge, which leaves Sweden cautious yet excited for the challenge.
USA’s Cutter Gauthier had once remarked on the previous Junior World Championship’s final, commenting on the ‘lack of class’ from the Swedish side. This served as motivation as the Juniorkronorna regrouped for this year’s championship. Axel Sandin-Pellikka, Sweden's captain, remarked on their strategy, stating, “We must fall back on our structure if it’s tight matches. We’re going for gold; that's our aim.” With revenge at the forefront of the players' minds, Sweden appears focused and ready.
Fans eagerly anticipate the start of the tournament and the potential for both teams to grow throughout the championship. The performance against Slovakia may well set the tone for what lies ahead. Sweden is poised to reclaim its title and prove their strength on the international stage once again. Time will tell if the Juniorkronorna can deliver on their ambitions on this exciting opening night.
