Kerri Einarson’s Canadian team faced mounting pressure at the 2021 Women’s World Curling Championship in Calgary, after suffering their fourth consecutive loss. A 6-2 defeat to a short-staffed German team left Canada with a precarious 1-5 record, risking their playoff chances. Einarson’s team needed to win all remaining games to stay in contention for one of six playoff spots. The competition also serves as a qualifier for the 2022 Beijing Olympics, adding to the stakes for Canada.
The championship faced disruptions due to COVID-19, with television coverage suspended after several broadcast crew members tested positive. However, the curling teams were unaffected as they were housed in different accommodations.
Val Sweeting, Einarson’s third, admitted to struggling during the game against Germany, contributing to Canada’s difficulties. The German team, led by Daniela Jentsch, was unaffected by pressure despite missing two players due to positive COVID tests. Germany took advantage of Canada’s struggles and played without the burden of high expectations.
As of Monday, Switzerland and Russia led the standings with a perfect 5-0 record, while Canada was tied for 12th with Italy. The tournament, originally scheduled for March in Switzerland, was relocated to Calgary due to health restrictions. It was held without spectators as part of a controlled environment to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
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