Czech Republic upsets Canada in OT thriller to start the World Cup

VIENNA (Austria) - We tip things off at the World Cup with a huge upset as the 16-seed Czech Republic pulled away with the OT win against last year's World Cup Runner-up Canada, 18-20. 

Coming into the tournament, Canada were touted as a title contender, dominating last year with a Women's Series Finals win as well as gaining the Silver at the World Cup. 

They attempted to flex their height advantage in the beginning of the opening tie. The dynamic sister duo of Michelle and Katherine Plouffe were pulling the strings. But the Czech Republic had another idea in mind. 

 

The golden rule of 3x3 - 2 is greater than 1. Led by Kateřina Galíčková, the underdogs kept battling back, almost closing out the win in regular time before Canada's late layup sent the game to OT. It didn't take long after for Galíčková to continue her roll from deep as she made the crucial two to hand the juggernaut Canadian side a crushing loss. 

The group only gets tougher from here on out as Canada are yet to face USA, Mongolia and Hungary.

Day 1 action is well and truly underway, with more twists and turns awaiting us.