Colorado Avalanche star Martin Necas scores in Czechia's final preliminary game at the World Championship

Czechia had the lead for moment when Martin Necas sniped one passed U.S. goaltender Jeremy Swayman off a beautiful pass from David Pastrnak on the power-play.

Pastrnak added a goal and an assist in the game, adding to his tournament-lead 14 points.

Here's a clip of Necas' beautiful one-timer!

It was a rude awakening for the defending champs as they lost their first game at the World Championship.

The American were dominant particularly in the first and third period, outshooting their opponent 56-27. Czechia goalie Karel Vejmelka was strong to give his team a chance throughout the game.

In a tense and penalty-filled matchup, Frank Nazar netted two power-play goals in the third period to lead the U.S. to victory. With the win, the Americans secured second place in Group B, while the reigning champion Czechs settled for third.

Josh Doan, Logan Cooley, and Andrew Peeke scored the other goals for the U.S. The game had three lead changes between the two teams.

The result leaves Switzerland in first place in the group with 19 points ahead of Thursday's quarter-final matchups.

Czechia will play Sweden in their quarter-final matchup on Thursday. Puck drop is set for 12:20pm MT.

Source:
IIHF.com
U.S. tops Czechs for second in Group B