Czechs Shut Down Canada to Win World Hockey Title

The Czech Republic has won the 2005 World Hockey Championship, defeating Canada 3-0 in the gold medal game.

The Czechs returned to the precise defensive game that won them three straight world title from 1999 to 2001. The focus was on stifling the Canadian forwards, while taking full advantage of the few scoring opportunities that fell their way. It worked to perfection, with a goal by Vaclav Prospal in the first period, a goal by Martin Rucinsky early in the third and one more into an empty net. Tomas Vokoun's 29 saves included few quality scoring chances.

For a team that never found a consistent effort, with long stretches of poor defense in just about every game, Canada did well to make the championship game and win a silver medal. Russia beat Sweden 6-3 earlier on Sunday to take the the bronze medal.

World Hockey Championship: Complete schedule and results.