The quarterfinals of the 2026 Ice Hockey World Championship have concluded, with Norway and Switzerland advancing to the semifinals. Norway achieved a historic milestone by reaching the semifinals for the first time since 1951.
Earlier in the day, Canada and Finland secured their places in the semifinals by defeating the reigning champions, the United States, and the Czech Republic, respectively. Canada won decisively, while Finland’s victory was equally significant.
Norway’s path to the semifinals included a 2-0 victory over Latvia, marking a notable achievement for the team, which last finished in the top four of the tournament over seven decades ago. The team’s goals were scored by Koblar and Sten, with the match concluding without any goals in the first period.
Switzerland faced Sweden in their quarterfinal match, initially trailing but managing to equalize by the end of the first period. The Swiss team then scored two decisive goals, securing a 3-1 victory. This win marked Switzerland’s eighth consecutive victory in regulation time since the tournament began.
This marks Switzerland’s third consecutive appearance in the semifinals, having reached the finals in the previous two years, only to lose to the Czech Republic and the United States.
Quarterfinal Results:
- Norway — Latvia — 2:0 (0:0, 1:0, 1:0)
Goals: Koblar, 28; Sten, 50
- Switzerland — Sweden — 3:1 (1:1, 2:0, 0:0)
Goals: Josi, 14; Malgin, 33; Turcotte, 37 — Karlsson, 7
The semifinals will feature Switzerland, the top-seeded team, facing Norway, while Canada will compete against Finland. Both matches are scheduled for Saturday, May 30.
Norway and Switzerland have advanced to the semifinals of the 2026 Ice Hockey World Championship, marking significant achievements for both teams. Norway reaches the semifinals for the first time since 1951, while Switzerland aims for a better outcome after two consecutive final losses.