Russia

From year to year the Russian team proves its status of one of the heavy favourites of Christmas Tournament. Veterans, that shined in official games just yesterday, always show a never fading sport spirit, confidence on skates and with sticks and will for victory that no time can change. The Russians have won five silver medals and two gold medals, in 2007 and 2010.

The roster of the Russian team is just as always rich in players with great hockey past: Lev Berdichevski, Valeri Kamensky, Vladimir Malakhov, Vitali Prokhorov, Rustem Kamaletdinov, and others. And of course the team would not be complete without its permanent captain and leader Alexander Medvedev, Director General of Gazprom export and President of Kontinental Hockey League.

This year at group stage the Russians will face team Canada in return game after a bitter loss in 2010. And the main tournament goal of Alexander Medvedev’s team is reaching the final and defending the champion title.