World Championships: Canada to face Russia, Hedman Shines

Team Canada lost again to yet another strong team in the WC's, today it was to the Czech Republic. The 3-2 loss brings Team Canada to a quater-final matchup against Russia on Thursday.

Even with Steven Stamkos back in the lineup, they Canadians were unable to beat the Czechs who were in a 'must win' game in order for them to advance to the quarter finals. Canada had an early 1-0 lead from Ray Whitney, but struggled through the game and even gave up a short handed goal. The Czechs then scored three unanswered goals on Chris Mason. Duchene was able to score late in the third to make it 3-2 with Mason pulled and Vokoun being steamrolled by Perry behind the net, but the team wasn't able to tie up the game.

Team Canada may need a miracle when they  face the Russian team that is heavy on the superstar factor. Unlike the Canadian club who only has one Olympian on its roster (Corey Perry), the Russians boast many players looking to make up for their embarrassing performance in the Olympics. Russia finished the qualifying round with a 5-0 record.

In the another game today, Sweden crushed Switzerland 5-0. Both Victor Hedman and John Harju of the Lightning scored for the Swedes. Sweden now moves on to face Denmark in the quarter finals on Thursday.