Germany knocked out of World Championships by Russia

Germany's hopes of securing a berth in the last four of the world ice-hockey championship were dashed by a 4-1 defeat to hosts Russia in the quarterfinals on Thursday.

Germany opened a surprise 1-0 lead after the first period of the match in Moscow thanks to Patrick Reimer's fifth-minute effort.

But not even in-form goalie Thomas Greiss could keep the “red machine” at bay and Russia go through to face Finland after the 2011 winners thumped Denmark 5-1.

The United States edged the Czech Republic 2-1 after a shootout and will play reigning champions Canada, who hammered Sweden 6-0, in the other of Saturday's semi-finals.

Germany were hoping to reach the last four for the first time since 2010 but will expect their run to the quarterfinals to lift them for their Olympic qualification bid in September.