Hugo Alnefelt, everyday in HV71, has won the TV puck and was the leading goalkeeper when Småkronorna won the U18 World Cup at home last spring. In this year's edition of JVM he has stood in three of four matches and has been a stable last outpost for Sweden.
- I think it's been okay so far, I've got a nice start. Just put in an extra gear now and go out and drive.
"I'll scout their PP"
Ahead of the quarter against the Czech Republic, the Junior crowns are seen as a big favorite and according to SVT's expert, Jonas Andersson, there are two things that could threaten a Swedish advance.
- Virtually everything indicates that Sweden wins. The Czech Republic has a good powerplay and they have the audience but Sweden is the better team. It is up to Sweden to handle the mental struggle, confidence and the ability to play their own game. That is what will determine whether Sweden wins or not.
The Czech Republic has a fierce powerplay with team captain Libor Zábranský in the lead, which stood for one of two goals that the Czech Republic scored numerically against the United States. A game form that Sweden is well aware of - and prepared for.
- We have seen all the powerplay they have had and somewhere it will be a key. In terms of discipline, it is not about getting involved in such situations, but if we do end up there, we must of course try to close their lead, says the union captain, Tomas Montén.
- I will scout their PP (powerplay) now for the match to be ready for what is to come. Then it's just to do my own and not much else, says Alnefelt.
The match will be broadcast in SVT 2 starting at 19.45.