GB begin World Championships against the Red Machine

Photo: Dean Woolley

Great Britain begin their 2021 IIHF World Championships campaign against Russia this morning at 10:15am UK time, with the game live on FreeSports.

It's a baptism of fire for Team GB in this year's competition, facing a team made up largely of KHL players with six additions from the NHL. Russia have placed third in three of the last four World Championships, and are also reigning Olympic Champions.

"We go in as the underdogs obviously, and I think our team has enjoyed being that lately. We want to compete hard, play the right way, hopefully get some bounces and see where it goes," said Great Britain Co-Head Coach Adam Keefe. "The main this is to compete the correct way through 60 minutes."

Captain Jonathan Phillips explained more about the team's aim for the tournament, which this year does not have any relegation. "We want to continue earning respect and showing that we believe in this top group.

"Obviously not a lot of our players were on the ice for a full season, but we want to show that we are a nation that keeps on improving and has younger players ready to step up."

Russia got off to a winning start on Friday with a late goal to beat the Czech Republic 4-3. "For our country, there is only one requirement - to win every game," explained Columbus Blue Jackets forward Mikhail Grigorenko, who scored the game-winner. "It's good to start with a win against the Czechs, but we can't afford to underestimate our next opponents."