Crosby and Celebrini Power Canada to 7-0 Victory Over Slovakia at World Hockey Championship

Stockholm, The Gulf Observer: Team Canada delivered a dominant performance at the IIHF World Hockey Championship on Saturday, shutting out Slovakia 7-0 at Avicii Arena. The win was powered by standout performances from veteran captain Sidney Crosby and rising star Macklin Celebrini, who combined for six points.

Crosby, 37, recorded two goals and two assists, while 18-year-old Celebrini added one goal and two assists. The pair teamed up twice during Canada’s three-goal second period, showcasing a blend of experience and youthful energy.

Nathan MacKinnon also contributed with a pair of goals, while Brandon Montour and Tyson Foerster added singles. Goaltender Jordan Binnington earned his second shutout of the tournament, stopping all 14 shots he faced.

“He [Celebrini] holds on to the puck so well and plays with a lot of poise,” said Crosby. “It’s been a lot of fun to play with him. He makes me work hard in practice and in games, so I need to keep up with him.”

With the win, Canada remains undefeated in Group A, collecting 15 points from five regulation victories. Co-host Sweden leads the group with 18 points from six games.

Canadian head coach Dean Evason praised the team’s defensive commitment, saying:

“It was exciting because we were up 5-0 and we had three or four blocked shots in a row. That just shows our commitment regardless of the score.”

Slovakia, currently fourth in Group A, struggled defensively. Patrik Rybar allowed five goals on 32 shots, while Adam Huska came in for the third period, stopping 10 of 12 shots.

Canada will next face Finland on Monday, followed by a crucial matchup against Sweden on Tuesday to conclude the round-robin stage.

“We are focusing on one day at a time, tightening up some things as we go,” said Binnington. “It has been fun to be part of the process, and tonight we really capitalized on our chances.”