Ice Hockey World Championship 2011: Germany vs. Slovakia

In their first game at the 2011 Ice Hockey World Championship in Slovakia, the German national team got their campaign off to a sensational start, just as they had at the tournament on home ice. In their opening game, they beat favorites Russia by an unanticipated 2–0. Hosts Slovakia also won their first Group A game. They beat Slovenia 3–1 and now face Germany in this evening’s top match in Bratislava. With the matchup of “surprise team versus host nation,” even casual observers can expect one of the most exciting games of the Ice Hockey World Championship in Slovakia.

The Russians provide the evening’s “warm-up” at 4:30 p.m. against the Slovenians. It’s not only fans of the former world champions who are hoping for redemption. The stars and numerous NHL pros hadn’t counted on the Germans’ impressive revenge victory: Germany had narrowly lost 2–1 to Russia in the semifinals of the last World Championship. It was Germany’s first-ever win over Russia in World Championship history. Now the players coached by Stanley Cup winner Uwe Krupp can settle matters with another victory. But this task will likely be at least as difficult as the match against the Russians. Although Slovakia, unlike Germany, were eliminated in the qualifying round at the last World Championship, they are now playing on home ice, in front of their own fans. They are also a well-rounded hockey nation that has celebrated great success in the past.

Broadcaster sport1, which is showing the game live at 8:15 p.m., is hoping for high viewing figures thanks to another upset. Despite the fine weather on May 1, many sports fans are expected to tune in. For all the excitement, Germany should not necessarily be considered the favorite in tonight’s matchup. Slovakia will be especially pleased these days about the Chicago Blackhawks’ playoff defeat in the NHL. It means superstar Marian Hossa is joining the Slovak team and will put the German defense under heavy pressure from the right wing.