Czechia stuns Canada in WJHC opening-day upset

Czechia shocked Canada to round out opening-day action at the world juniors, beating the defending gold medalist 5-2.

The upset is Czechia's first win against Canada at the world juniors since 2013.

Shane Wright scored the opening goal for Canada, but David Spacek and David Moravec combined to tally two goals in 35 seconds to take a lead Czechia never surrendered.

Stanislav Svozil potted the eventual winner 44 seconds into the second frame.

Canadian Zach Dean received a controversial match penalty for making contact with Ales Cech's head during a hit. Jaroslav Chmelar and Matous Mensik scored on the ensuing five-minute power play to put the game out of reach.

Canada goaltender Benjamin Gaudreau was pulled after allowing five goals on 17 shots. His opposite number, Tomas Suchanek, made 36 saves in the victory.

Czechia faces Austria on Tuesday, while Canada will look to bounce back against Germany on Wednesday.