SAINT PAUL, MN – The United States survived a tight contest against Switzerland, securing a 2-1 victory in their second game of the 2026 World Junior Championship. The game, held on Saturday, December 27th, saw the Americans improve to 2-0 in Group A.
The first period was a tense, scoreless affair, despite good chances for both teams. U.S. forward Teddy Stiga had a couple of opportunities early, but Swiss goalie Christian Kirsch proved difficult to beat. The Americans had two good chances on a Swiss power play, but Cole Hutson was stopped on a breakaway, and Kirsch denied captain Brodie Ziemer. Kirsch's play kept the game even through 20 minutes.
The U.S. broke the deadlock early in the second period when Brodie Ziemer, assisted by James Hagens and Will Horcoff, fired a shot past Kirsch. However, the elation was short-lived as Cole Hutson took a shot to the head and was stretchered off the ice. Shortly after play resumed, Switzerland's Basile Sansonnens scored, tying the game at 1-1. Joel Grossniklaus and Lars Steiner assisted on the play.
The Americans responded quickly, with Will Zellers scoring just minutes later to regain the lead. Cole McKinney was credited with the assist. Despite further opportunities, neither team could find the net again in the second period, and the U.S. carried a 2-1 advantage into the final frame.
The third period was scoreless as both teams tightened up defensively. Switzerland pushed for an equalizer, but Nick Kempf in the U.S. net held firm. Switzerland almost tied the game in the final minute when Lars Steiner hit the post. The United States ultimately held on to win 2-1.
Christian Kirsch stood out for Switzerland, turning away numerous quality chances. Basile Sansonnens also had a strong game, scoring his first IIHF goal.
The injury to Cole Hutson in the second period appeared to affect the game's flow. Hutson was taken to the hospital for further evaluation.
The USA will have Sunday, Dec. 28, off and return to action on Monday, Dec. 29, against Slovakia. Switzerland will be back on Sunday to take on Germany.
