EP Rinkside's 3 Stars from Day 4 of the 2024 U18 World Hockey Championship

Espoo, FINLAND - The fourth day of competition at the U18 World Championships saw the big four clubs facing off against what was supposed to be inferior competition. The Finns, Americans, and Canadians took care of business easily. However, the Swedes had their hands full with a Czechia squad that looked miles better in their third match of the event. 

Czechia held a 2-0 lead through 39 minutes before Victor Eklund tallied late in the second frame. A late third-period goal sent the game to extra time before Czechia capitalized on three straight shootout attempts to come away with a massive 3-2 victory in a pivotal match to determine second place in the Group. 

Edmonton Oil Kings forward and projected top-60 pick in the 2024 draft, Adam Jecho scored the second goal of the game for Czechia and