UFA, RUSSIA - Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Ryan Strome scored in the first period, helping Canada beat the United States 2-1 to advance to the next round at the junior ice hockey world championships.
Jacob Trouba scored for the United States. The Americans need to beat Slovakia on Monday in Group B to move on.
"We had our opportunities to tie or win the game," said Phil Housley, head coach of the U.S. National Junior Team. "We have to eliminate our mistakes, and that includes penalties. ... Now we have to regroup and get ready for Slovakia tomorrow."
John Gibson made 30 saves for the U.S., and Canada goalie Malcolm Subban made 36 saves. The United States had 34 minutes in penalties to Canada's 14.
Canada will face Russia on Monday to determine which team gets a bye into the semifinals.
Slovakia stayed alive by beating Germany 2-1 on an overtime power-play goal by Peter Ceresnak.
In Group A, Finland beat Switzerland 5-4 on a shootout goal by Markus Granlund, who also scored twice in regulation. Granlund is the brother of Wild prospect Mikael Granlund.
The Czech Republic defeated Latvia 4-2 to advance to the next round. Martin Frk scored twice.
