Canadians Down U.S.

Three-time defending champion Canada, playing as if intent on another title, defeated the United States 6-1 on the opening day of the World Junior Hockey Championship.

Tri-City Americans center Daymond Langkow had a goal and two assists while Spokane Chiefs center Jason Podollan tallied an assist for Canada, which is bidding for a fifth title in six years.

Earlier, the Czech Republic beat Russia 5-3; Finland, behind Timo Salonen’s two goals, downed Switzerland 5-1; and Sweden, led by goalie Magnus Nilsson, defeated Slovakia 6-0.