Team Switzerland has officially announced its roster for the 2025 World Junior Ice Hockey Championship, which will take place in Ottawa, Canada. After recent preparations, the Swiss team is set to bring 26 players, comprising three goalies, nine defensemen, and 14 forwards. The final decision on the lineup will come after one last cut, and the fans are eager to see who will make the final cut.
The head of the team, Coach Marcel Jenni, faced tough choices during the selection process. Following their convincing 5-1 win over Latvia, the team decided to part ways with defenseman Gian Meier and forwards Janis Embacher and Matteo Wagner. 'The decision was anything but easy for me and my staff,' said Jenni. 'All the players were there with a lot of passion and dedication. I would like to thank the players, who now have to travel home, for their great efforts.'
Among the forwards making the squad are Robin Antenen from EV Zug, Léo Braillard of the Lethbridge Hurricanes, and promising young talent Jonah Neuenschwander, who at just 15 years old, has made history as the youngest participant since 2001. Neuenschwander's debut season with EHC Biel-Bienne has been impressive, netting 11 goals and 13 assists over 26 games.
Other forwards to note include Rico Gredig, who was selected by the New York Rangers during the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, and Lars Steiner of the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies. Steiners’ and Bralliar’s performances could prove pivotal for Switzerland’s offensive strategies.
Switzerland will also rely heavily on its defensive corps. Notable players like Leon Muggli and Basile Sansonnens bring significant experience to the lineup. Muggli, who was recently drafted by the Washington Capitals, has showcased both defensive skill and offensive capabilities, making him one to watch. He recorded one goal and four assists this season with EV Zug and was instrumental during international play, having strong performances at the U18 Championships.
Likewise, Sansonnens adds size and mobility to the blue line as the 18-year-old defenseman brings his experience from North American leagues. Playing for Rimouski Océanic, he has been noted for his dependable two-way game, developing more NHL interest.
The Swiss also field three goaltenders: Ewan Huet, Christian Kirsch, and Elijah Neuenschwander. While goalkeeping remains somewhat of a concern, especially with the pressures of international competition, significant strides have been made by both Huet and Kirsch who have had solid seasons with their respective teams.
Team Switzerland’s outlook for the tournament is cautiously optimistic. Analysts proclaim they hold potential for reaching the quarterfinals, but the path to the medal round appears challenging. Their historical performance suggests needed improvement, as the Swiss team has reached the quarterfinals but failed to make it to the medal round since their fourth place finish at the last significant competition in 2019.
Notably, Neuenschwander’s historic appearance marks him as one of the most talked-about players this year. His participation signifies not only his talents but also the rich pipeline of future talents arising from Switzerland. Even though he is not draft-eligible until 2027, his impact on the tournament could be significant as it allows him to gain invaluable experience against his peers.
After losing their opening game to Czechia by 5-1, Team Switzerland faces the pressure to bounce back against Slovakia. This match could serve as either the catalyst for their championship run or the precursor to another early exit, as their recent performances have shown potential but also vulnerability.
With the roster firmly set and the intensity of the World Junior Championship looming, all eyes will be on the young talents and established players alike as they represent Switzerland on the international ice hockey stage. Fans and analysts alike are hoping for memorable performances and, potentially, the first medal for Team Switzerland at the World Juniors since 2019.
