The seven-time winners produced a strong display against the US, as they cruised to a 5-0 victory in the Chinese city.

Sweden, the tournament favourites, were joined at the top of the Group A standings by their main rivals Russia.

The Russian team are hoping to improve on their runner-up finish at the 2016 Championships in the US.

They proved untroubled in their opening match of the tournament, with the 2014 winners beating Norway 5-0.

Hosts China endured a difficult start in Group B, after they were outclassed by an impressive Finnish team.

Finland, four-time bronze medallists at the event, emerged as comfortable 10-0 winners.

The Group B standings are led by Estonia, after they brushed aside European rivals Switzerland 12-0.

Competition will continue tomorrow with the US taking on Norway in Group A, while Russia and Sweden's clash will prove the highlight of the day.

Group B will pit Finland against Switzerland, while Estonia will chase a second victory when they meet China.

Sweden have won seven of the eight editions of the competition to date, beating Russia in the gold medal match on each occasion, although their rivals won the 2014 final in Finland.

Group matches are due to draw to a close on Thursday (January 11), with quarter-finals taking place the following day.

Semi-finals and medal matches are scheduled to be held on Saturday (January 13).

Bandy is a sport recognised by the International Olympic Committee but it is currently not on the Winter Olympic programme.

The decision to stage the event in China was viewed as a boost to its hopes of appearing at Beijing 2022.

Competition is taking place on a frozen lake.