Switzerland? Finland? Slovakia? Has the world gone crazy? What happened to the Olympic powers, you may ask? Don’t worry…they’re going to show up starting tomorrow. Here’s a preview of the first round match-ups.

FINLAND vs. USA
Hmmm…I’m not sure what to make of this one. The way Finland has played stingy defense combined with the USA’s tendency to not score goals could spell doom for an upset – but I guarantee that Team Stars and Stripes is happier to see Finland than Canada in this spot. Color me crazy – but I smell an upset. USA 4 FINLAND 3

SWEDEN vs. SWITZERLAND
Three words to discribe the Swiss run to Gold. IT IS OVER. This game isn’t even worth breaking down. After two ties to Germany and Italy – Switzerland blew its load early. SWEDEN 5 SWITZERLAND 1

CANADA vs. RUSSIA
Oh man. I had picked this to be the Gold Medal game and in a way, I still think it’s true. Whoever wins this game could march all the way to gold. All signs point to Russia winning a wild one here – Nabby has been hot, Brodeur is banged up, Canada has been pushed around and the power play has been mortal. But….I think Team Canada will finally become interested and will not allow themselves to go home early. They looked bored and now with Gold on the line – they show up.
CANADA 5 RUSSIA 3

SLOVKIA vs. CZECH REPUBLIC
Great match-up. Slovakia is another team that surprised many in running the table in Round One. Will Vokoun get a chance to redeem himself or will the Czechs make a big mistake and play the rookie. I think they play the rookie….and they lose.
SLOVIA 6 CZECH REP 3

That would mean USA vs. SWEDEN and SLOVAKIA vs. CANADA in the Semis…