PHOTO: Bildbyrån
The junior crowns are in the semi-finals of the JVM.
Then more will be required of the Swedish players, according to Jonas Andersson.
– They must have a better performance, says the expert to SVT.
Sweden has come a long way in the pursuit of the first Swedish JVM gold since 2012. On Thursday evening, the semi-final against the Czech Republic is imminent, which will be a chance for revenge for the Junior crowns.
Favorite in replay
It was Axel Sandin Pellikka, on weekdays in Skellefteå AIK, who decided for Sweden after great drama in the quarter-finals against Switzerland. The junior crowns lost a 2–0 lead to 2–2 and the match went to overtime, when the 18-year-old defender from Malmberget stepped up and took Sweden to the semis.
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After the Czech Republic won its quarter-final against Canada, it was clear that it would be a repeat of the last championship’s semi-final. Sweden then basically led the entire match, but unfortunately lost 1–2 after extra time.
The Czech Republic then lost the final to Canada, while the Junior Crowns lost the bronze medal match to the USA.
Sweden needs that
The SVT expert Jonas Andersson believe that there will be an even semi-final between Sweden and the Czech Republic this year as well.
– We must remember that there are only five players from last year in the Czech team now. But it is still a strong Czech Republic. It is not the same as Switzerland but a completely different opposition, Andersson tells SVT.
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The former hockey player believes that it will require a better effort than against Switzerland from Sandin Pellikka, Otto Stenberg, Elias Pettersson and the rest of the gang.
– It is very strong to win (against Switzerland) as there are few who come up in approved quality even. If Sweden is to win the semi-final, they must have a better performance, says Jonas Andersson.
READ MORE: Håkan Loob now comes with harsh criticism – despite the Swedish victory in the JVM drama: “What’s going on?”
They are favorites
But Andersson still holds the Junior crowns as favourites.
– I believe in revenge. I think Sweden will handle that, because it’s something completely different to play a quarter-final when you have everything to lose. The semi-final is not at all the same, but then Sweden can let loose a little more. They are better than the Czech Republic and I think they will do it too.
READ MORE: Big JVM success: Over 100,000 spectators have seen the tournament on site
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