Sweden's defence looked great whereas the Russian blueline looked like it really could've used
Yan Kuznetsov and
Daniil Chayka. When the Russians decided to take only players playing in Russia, I mentioned on my podcast that
Yaroslav Askarov (NSH) would need to stand in his head like Hasek in '98 in order for Russia to succeed. Askarov struggled this afternoon. He gave up 3 goals on 16 shots and was pulled after two periods. He once again was having issues holding onto his stick. If Askarov doesn't play to the level that is expected, it will be a short (but long) tournament for Russia.