In his first game at the 2024 IIHF World Championship, Kevin Fiala scored his team’s only goal in regulation time and again in the shootout as Switzerland defeated host Czechia 2-1 to earn a points split of the same score in what could turn out to be a key game for seeding in Group A.

It was Fiala’s first game of the tournament, having just flown from Los Angeles to Prague after the birth of his daughter.

For Fiala, it was all about family. He has Czech roots and used to visit Prague frequently as a child, so for him it was a bit like a homecoming. In the mixed zone after the game, the Czech media was interested in his family and ties to the city.

“My grandma welcomed me at the airport. It was a beautiful feeling because I don't get to see her very often anymore,” he said with a smile on his face. “I live in the USA and she's here in Prague. I'm also happy to be able to see my teammates again.”

He continued: "I was looking forward to Prague. I played here in the World Championship nine years ago. In my childhood, I came to Prague quite often. It's a great opportunity to visit my grandma and see everything again.” 

Fiala was also asked about putting his hand up to his ear towards the crowd after scoring in the shootout.

 “I didn’t plan it, it came out of the situation,” he admitted. “A lot of emotions, the fans were loud the whole game, which I liked. But I wanted to calm them down a bit,” he smiled.