Team USA powered to a 7-0 win over the Czech Republic in the quarterfinals of the 2016 World Junior Championship this afternoon.
The United States now advances to the semifinals against Russia, who defeated Denmark 4-3 in overtime in their quarterfinal game. The Russian win was not without controversy as the game tying Russian goal came immediately after what some are calling a blown icing call against Denmark.
The United States and Russian teams met in last year’s quarterfinal round with the Russians advancing. This years semifinal game is looking to be the premier matchup of the tournament as the United States now looks to be developing goal scoring chemistry.
Auston Matthews, the expected first overall pick in the 2016 NHL Draft, scored two goals less than four minutes apart in the second period. Nick Schmaltz, Chicago Blackhawks prospect, recorded his second assist on Matthews’ third goal. Matthews leads the tournament with seven goals. The U.S.’ goal scoring record in the tournament is eight, being set by Jeremy Roenick.
