Sweden was 38 seconds from the JVM final.
Instead, it was a snowy overtime loss to the Czech Republic.
Now the bronze match awaits tomorrow.
Sweden were on their way to their first JVM final in five years after Ludwig Jansson scored in the second half to make it 1-0 against the Czech Republic.
But with 38 seconds left to play and a goalkeeper selected, David Czesek was able to edge the stellar Karl Lindbom into the Swedish goal.
Bronze match
In extra time, the Czechs then settled through Jiri Kulich, thus clinching the junior title in the final.
Sad, of course. It was close, but unfortunately not enough. However, I think we are playing our best game in the tournament. I’m struggling with the boys now, says Magnus Hävelid at SVT.
The bronze medal match is now awaited on Thursday night against the United States or Canada.
Against the Czech Republic in Halifax, Sweden defended with a totally consistent effort and really didn’t allow opponents to create any major rivalries whatsoever over the first two periods.
Several opportunities to make a decision
In the middle segment, defender Ludvig Jansson made it 1-0 after a real smoker from the blue line who went straight to the cross.
Then, the junior crowns played nearly two minutes on the power play, 5-on-3, without creating any big chances.
In the last period, the Czechs got a little closer, but then it was Lindbom who fought back and came to the rescue. It continued all the way until there were 38 seconds left.
In extension, Sweden had many chances to decide, but without getting the puck.
