In Group A, Belarus won 8-1 over Denmark and Portugal 7-3 over Turkey. They are therefore the two opponents of Switzerland this evening and tomorrow morning in the games for the promotion. Denmark and Turkey are playing against relegation.
With a clear 6: 2 (4 : 0) victory over Slovakia, Switzerland made it into the promotion pool in front of 1200 spectators in the sold-out Maihofhalle in Lucerne. After the 3:1 victory of the Croats against Italy it was already clear: Switzerland had to play at least a draw to reach the promotion pool.
Host clarified with solid performance
Supported by all the Swiss selection teams and 1000 other spectators, the Swiss did not get into trouble. Already after 6 minutes they were leading 3 : 0 and played their game calmly and confidently. Slovakia could at no time resist.
So Slovakia and Italy will have to take their place in the relegation pool.
Tension before the promotion games The Swiss are thus taking the point against Croatia with them and will now play against Belarus today at 20.30 and tomorrow at 14.00 against Portugal for promotion. The two best-placed teams move up to the A-pool. In addition to Slovakia and Italy, Denmark and Turkey must also join the relegation pool. One team will be relegated to the C Division.
The second day in Lucerne brought first preliminary decisions. Switzerland took the lead in Group D in the last game of the day with a win against Belarus, which is about promotion. Directly behind them are Belarus and Portugal. Croatia still has a theoretical chance of reaching one of the two promotion spots. But one after the other.
There, in Group C, the first preliminary decisions were made. On Sunday, Denmark and Slovakia will duel each other for the relegation. Turkey and Italy are saved. Switzerland and Portugal will have a showdown for the ascent. Belarus could profit if it beats Croatia in the direct duel.