Does Latvia make quaterfinals?

[octopi]

Who thinks Latvia might just make the quarterfinals now that they have tied the USA? This would mean one of the "contender' teams in that group misses....

Before you dismiss me as nuts, think about it....every team plays every other team once, so if from now on,Latvia gets the points they're expected to get(Kazakstan, for example) then they could do it, right?

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[Buddhaa]

It is possible if Latvia wins Kazakhstan (very likely) and gets another tie or win against one of the other three teams - Slovakia (possible), Sweden (very unlikely, Scandinavian teams for whatever reason have always outplayed Latvia by a higher margin than the other 5 hockey nations) and Russia (possible, Latvia has won Russia twice in the last 4-5 games in World Champioships).

 

[shawn_kemp*]

Latvia would have to beat one of the other elite teams. I believe they can beat Slovakia or Russia, although it's very unlikely.

 

[Piggymon]

They're still in group B with 4 other big nations so like the guys above me said they're going to have to steal another point, not likely. Germany looks good for that final spot in A though. If Latvia keeps putting up solid performances they'll soon be seeded 8th and make quarter finals all over the place

 

[shawn_kemp*]

Germany looks good for that final spot in A though.

I don't know but Switzerland is actually playing even with the Czechs, while Germany was dominated.

 

[TheRedressor]

Definetly possible that Latvia could make it. But it depends on how USA plays. They just seems so disorginized on the ice.

Amazing how great USA was in 2002. Definetly was Richter in goal.

 

[Piggymon]

I don't know but Switzerland is actually playing even with the Czechs, while Germany was dominated.

I thought Germany looked great until the Czechs woke up, especially the PP was a barrage on Vokoun. Well it looks like it will come down to the Sui-Ger game anyway, too late for an upset now I think.

 

[GKJ]

Latvia is going to have get at least another point from Russia

 

[Michael Morbid]

I really enjoyed watching Latvia today, what they're lacking in skill they are making up for in heart. A well coached team too.

 

[Dreamgirl]

Latvia is one team that sure tries, amazing. I love the spirit of not only the team but of those rowdy fans. That's how hockey should be. Wish them all the best.

 

[Raimo Sillanpää]

Latvia-Russia will be the key game imho. Latvian team and fans will want a result in that more than in any other game. If they can control their emotional high,.. there could be the ingredients of an upset.

 

[CRUNK JUICE]

Latvia would have to beat one of the other elite teams. I believe they can beat Slovakia or Russia, although it's very unlikely.

I really feel like they have a shot at Russia. They always play their hearts out against them and anyone who's followed Arturs Irbe's career knows how upsets are his bread and butter. When the chips are down and the other team is a heavy favorite, Archie is always at his best (ask some Detroit or Toronto fans about him and the playoffs).

I'm even willing to put a couple bucks where my mouth if someone will give me some decent odds.

 

[CRUNK JUICE]

Latvia is one team that sure tries, amazing. I love the spirit of not only the team but of those rowdy fans. That's how hockey should be. Wish them all the best.

I really enjoyed watching Latvia today, what they're lacking in skill they are making up for in heart. A well coached team too.

Couldn't agree more. These guys are going balls out and I love their rabid fans. Definitely one of the teams I'm cheering heavily for (not that being a big fan of Irbe doesn't help as well).

 

[Caz]

I'd say one of Latvia's decisive games is USA-SWE on Sunday.

If both teams get a point that game, the big teams continue
from group B. If US doesn't get any points from that game, LAT
should have a good shot for the QF. USA only beat KAZ by 3
goals and I believe LAT will have a bigger win in their game
against KAZ, thus leaving a slight advantage for them.

 

[GKJ]

If the USA wins beats Sweden, Latvia would have to beat someone now (after re-doing my math). If they tie, the tie-breaker is goal differential, in all games. it would depend how well both these teams actually play.

 

[Caz]

Yup.

But even if SWE had a bad day yesterday, I see them as
the favourites in the USA-SWE game. And a contender
for at least the SFs.

 

[Ola]

It is possible if Latvia wins Kazakhstan (very likely) and gets another tie or win against one of the other three teams - Slovakia (possible), Sweden (very unlikely, Scandinavian teams for whatever reason have always outplayed Latvia by a higher margin than the other 5 hockey nations) and Russia (possible, Latvia has won Russia twice in the last 4-5 games in World Champioships).

You are right about that. Thought the same thing, we have more problems with Belarus and Co..

 

[Ola]

It is possible if Latvia wins Kazakhstan (very likely)

Don't know this year. But I wouldn't at all be suprised if Kazakhstan wins against Latvia. For the Letts its a diffrent sport to play against USA and to play against Kazakstan. I almost holds Kazakstan as a favorite in that game if you look at the talent on both sides, but Kazakstan have nothing to play for, that Latvia have. A factor you can't underestimate.