Humbert Makes U.S. Squad Hum

The United States, paced by Chris Humbert’s three goals, virtually assured itself of a spot in the quarterfinals of the by defeating Ukraine, 9-7.

The score was tied, 7-7, in the fourth period when the U.S. luck seemed to turn.

Vadym Rozhdestvensky hit the bar for Ukraine (0-2-1), then Chris Oeding’s second goal at the other end of the pool put the Americans ahead to stay.

The Americans (2-1) still have to play Croatia and Romania in the preliminary round-robin group.

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Defending champion Italy posted its third victory, beating Croatia, 10-8, to move into the quarterfinals. Croatia is 2-1. . . . Hungary went to 3-0 and earned a place in the quarters with a 10-8 victory over the Netherlands (0-3). . . . Yugoslavia (2-0-1), beat 1992 silver medalist Spain, 9-7. Spain fell to 2-1. . . . Russia defeated Germany, 10-8. Russia is 1-1-1 and Germany is 0-3. . . . Greece posted its first victory by overcoming Romania, 8-5. Romania is 0-2-1.