Shootout Hero Čejka Gives Czechia Derby Triumph

Goals and assists

17. Kucharčík (Čejka, Bílý), 40. Kohout (Bláha, Wrobel), 50. Čejka – 5. Martinusík (Stümpel, Pisarovič), 43. Lopušan (Korbáš)

Referees

Sergio De Luca, Adrian Goddard

Spectators

2732

Czechia

Mokry - Fanderlik, Hrabár, Hudec, Kastner, Kubíček, Laurinc, Vaniš, Školoudík, Šlehofer - Bláha, Bílý, Jágr, Kohout, Kucharčík, Langr, Lhota, Pavlíček, Rozlílek, Vaněk, Wrobel, Zvonek, Čejka

Slovakia

Kučera - Dubeň, I. Gajdoš, Kozák, Lopušan, Mikula, Revaj, Salajka, Stümpel, Šulik - Balát, Benko, Hryzák, Klema, Korbáš, Lipiansky, Martinusík, Mráz, Olejník, Piják, Pisarovič, Straka, Šatka

COACHES´ REACTIONS

​David Kuna (CZE): "We're happy with the win, although we were close to deciding the game in regulation time. The opponent played very aggressively and caused us problems in the offensive zone. We had a few defensive lapses, and the difference was also in special teams, as Slovaks were able to capitalize on their power-play opportunities. The beginning of the game was difficult for us and at times we allowed ourselves to become distracted by certain situations, which affected our performance. From the second period onwards, however, we took control of the game, spent a lot of time in the offensive zone and created several good scoring chances. We were also a bit unlucky, hitting the post and crossbar on a few occasions. Still, this is the kind of tough game that can help prepare us for the playoffs, and we're pleased to come away with the win. We truly appreciate the support from the fans and hope even more of them will come to the arena in the coming days, because their energy gives the team a huge boost."

​Milan Rampáček (SVK): "I think the fans witnessed a very high-quality game between two strong teams. It was an entertaining match both tactically and from a playing perspective. I'm proud of my team and the performance the players delivered. I have very little to criticize – they followed the game plan, worked hard, were strong on the ball and created dangerous opportunities. In the end, the game was decided in the shootout, which is always a bit of a lottery. The Czech team scored twice, we scored once, and that made the difference. Despite the result, we're pleased with the way we're progressing because our performances have been improving from game to game. Our focus now shifts to Finland, and we want to build momentum with a strong result heading into the quarterfinals."