Canada's men open with win at worlds

PRAGUE, Czech Republic — Connor Bedard scored twice in his world championship debut, and Canada overcame a surprise early deficit to open its title defence at the world men's hockey championship with a 4-2 win over Britain on Saturday.

The 18-year-old Bedard, coming off a great rookie

NHL season with the Chicago Blackhawks, scored twice in a four-minute span of the second period to put the Group A game in Prague out of reach.

“It was a good first game, but we want to keep improving and be on a steady incline of progress throughout the tournament, and we are looking forward to continuing to play games here,” Bedard said.

Canada had to rally from a goal down despite outshooting Britain 12-3 in the opening period and 34-15 overall.

Liam Kirk put Britain ahead 1-0 on a power play eight minutes into the game, but the lead lasted just 30 seconds as Michael Bunting found the back of the net from the point to tie it 1-1.

Brandon Hagel put the defending champions ahead 5:45 into the second period with a shot high into the roof of the net.

Then it was Bedard's turn.

The teenager beat goaltender Jackson Whistle (30 saves) midway through the frame for his first goal at the senior worlds, scooping up a rebound to reward Canada for sustained pressure. He made it 4-1 after Nick Paul fed him with a perfect pass.

Ben O'connor scored in the third period for Britain when he beat Canada goaltender Joel Hofer, who made 13 saves.

Canada next plays Denmark on Sunday. Denmark opened with a 5-1 win over Austria.