The defending champion United States beat Switzerland 7-2 in the quarterfinals of the world junior hockey championship. It will face Czechia next.

Boston College teammates James Hagens and Ryan Leonard each scored twice and the defending champion United States routed Switzerland 7-2 on Thursday in the world junior hockey quarterfinals

"The United States-Canada match at World Juniors is often unpredictable," Starman said. "They are still kids, emotions run high, and when the game is in Canada, the Canadians tend to play a little more on the edge to the home crowd. Often, it gets them into trouble.

Welcome back to the return World Junior Predictions. The elite Under-20 showcase features plenty of players that could become NHL superstars. Last Word on Hockey takes a look at the games and breaks down the head-to-head matchups and other factors that play in.

Danny Nelson scored the eventual game-winner in the third period and Trey Augustine made 38 saves, leading the United States to a 4-1 win over Canada and into the top spot in Group A at the world junior hockey championship.

The United States took care of Switzerland at the World Junior quarterfinals, notching seven goals in a decisive victory.

The United States, trying to win this tournament for a second straight year, will play Switzerland in the quarterfinals at 2:30 p.m. ET on Thursday, Jan. 2.

Therese Johaug has claimed her fourth Tour de Ski victory in style by winning the final stage climb up Mount Cermis.

Around the world, dramatic swings between heavy rain and drought are increasing exponentially, according to new research.

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Here are Starman's 3 keys to victory for the United States against Czechia: