Axel Sandin Pellikka’s Hat-Trick Propels Sweden to Victory in World Juniors
Swedish captain Axel Sandin Pellikka delivered an unforgettable performance to lead his team to a commanding 5-2 victory over Slovakia in the opening game of the 2025 World Junior Championship in Ottawa. His natural hat trick, coupled with an assist, showcased his exceptional skill and leadership on the ice, reaffirming Sweden’s position as a dominant force in the tournament.
Despite Slovakia’s early lead, Sweden displayed resilience and composure. Slovakian captain Dalibor Dvorsky opened the scoring in the first period, capitalizing on a four-on-four opportunity with a sharp shot through traffic. However, Axel Sandin Pellikka played a pivotal role in turning the game around. He began Sweden’s resurgence in the second period by setting up Rasmus Bergqvist for a crucial equalizer. Pellikka’s deft handling at the blue line and precise pass led to Bergqvist’s low shot beating Slovak goalie Samuel Urban.
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Shortly after, Sandin Pellikka himself found the back of the net during a power play. His powerful one-timer gave Sweden a 2-1 advantage and set the tone for the third period. He then elevated his performance further, scoring twice more. First, he exploited a defensive gap, firing a wrist shot high over Urban’s shoulder. Later, he completed his hat trick with a point shot that sailed through traffic and into the net, sealing his team’s dominance.
The captain’s exceptional performance was complemented by Linus Eriksson’s late-game goal, further extending Sweden’s lead. Slovakia managed a consolation goal from Daniel Jencko, but it was too little, too late.
Sandin Pellikka, a 2023 Detroit Red Wings draft pick, has been a standout in the Swedish Hockey League this season, and his brilliance on the international stage cements his reputation as one of hockey’s rising stars. Sweden’s victory is a promising start to their campaign as they aim to secure their first World Juniors gold medal since 2012.
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