IIHF World Championships: Day 1 Game Day Thread

Well, it's finally here.  You might catch a glimpse of the opening ceremonies today if you're early enough and can find the right broadcast.  The IIHF has the option to purchase the entire tournament for the price of 40 Euros here (not available for USA, Sweden, Russia, Germany, Denmark, and others).  Broadcasters for the tournament can be found here, so you can find out where you can catch some of the action whether you're in Sweden or Liberia.  Clipperton Island?  What the hell?

Here are the games:

Germany vs. Russia (4:15 PM local, 10:15 AM EST) - Bratislava

Germany finished 4th last year, Russia 2nd.  But these are much different teams...  both are weaker rosters than a year ago.  Expect that to affect Germany moreso than Russia, at least at the start.

Switzerland   vs. France   (4:15 PM local, 10:15 AM EST) - Kosice

The Swiss get a bit of an easy start here.  France has as good of a team as they possibly can, while the Swiss boast a lot of experience and well, way more talent. 

Slovakia   vs. Slovenia   (8:15 PM local, 2:15 PM EST) - Bratislava

These teams are similar in name and flag only...  the hosts are expecting a big win to kick off the tournament for their fans.  Slovenia will probably just try not to embarrass themselves upon returning to the big stage. 

Belarus   vs. Canada   (8:15 PM local, 2:15 PM EST) - Kosice

Apparently Mikhail Grabovski has been trash-talking his Maple Leafs teammate, goaltender James Reimer, saying he knows his weaknesses and will light him up.  Let's see if he's right...  because if he's not, I don't know who on Belarus will be able to.

Follow the updates here in the comments, and join in the discussion if you find yourself watching the tournament yourself.  Let the fun begin!