Russia's Alexei Morozov scored in the 44th minute to give his country a 4-3 victory over Slovakia in Group A at the Ice Hockey World Championships in Bratislava on Tuesday.
Russia's Alexander Radulov scored in the first minute, and Ilya Nikulin got the puck into Slovakia's net twice, in the 19th and 39th minutes.
Three goals for hosts Slovakia were scored by Miroslav Satan in the 2nd minute, Marian Gaborik (31) and Ladislav Nagy (33).
Morozov said after the match that Slovakia was a very strong opponent, and it was hard for the Russian team to win.
"We showed our character in this match," he said.
BRATISLAVA, May 4 (RIA Novosti)
