Canada blanks China to set up elimination rematch

Matthew Tomkins made 26 saves as Canada's men's Olympic hockey team closed out its preliminary-round action with a 5-0 drubbing of China on Sunday.

The defending bronze medalists will meet the tournament hosts again during Tuesday's qualification-round play.

The United States clinched first place in Group A and booked its ticket to the next round after hanging on to defeat Germany 3-2.

Canada turned to Tomkins in the crease after Edward Pasquale struggled during Saturday's 4-2 loss to the United States.

Five Canadian players scored against China. They wasted no time, with forward Ben Street opening the scoring just over two minutes into the contest.

Eric O'Dell had another strong showing, notching a goal and an assist.

Youngster Kent Johnson buried his first tally of the tournament while Adam Tambellini and Corban Knight rounded out the scoring for Canada.

O'Dell and Johnson are tied for Canada's scoring lead with four points apiece.

Forward Jordan Weal was bleeding from his ear and exited the game during the opening frame after being hit into the boards, but he returned during the second period.

Canada's penalty kill remained perfect at the tournament so far.

The United States, Russian Olympic Committee, and Finland moved on to the quarterfinals after winning their groups. Sweden also automatically advanced due to having the best record of the remaining countries.

Canada is the top-ranked team of the qualification round.