The Czech Republic defeats Switzerland in a crazy game on shootout. Until 38 seconds before the end, the Swiss were trailing 1:3 against the favourites from the Czech Republic before Mermoud and Cioffo were able to equalise.
This is the first time in history that a men's national team has been able to take a point from the Czech Republic. However, this historic milestone had to be hard-earned. The Czech Republic took the lead as early as the 4th minute. The Czech Republic absolutely lived up to their role as favourites and set the tone, but the Swiss defended solidly and kept the game open for a long time - even better: Fairclough was able to equalise shortly before the break.
However, the Czech Republic got off to a brilliant start in the final period and scored 56 seconds after the restart to make it 1-2, and when Cejka scored six minutes before the end to make it 1-3, the game seemed to have been decided. Tibor Kapanek's team did not give up, continued to fight and obviously caused a few headaches for the World Cup favourites.Without a goalkeeper, Mermoud equalised with a powerful long-range shot and Cioffo, after a beautiful solo run down the side, scored the much-vaunted equaliser. Overtime did not bring a decision and so the penalty shoot-out had to decide the extra point. This was won by the Czech Republic thanks to Jan Cejka's only goal. After a rest day, Switzerland will conclude the group phase against Italy on Tuesday (17:30).
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