The Europeans clinched victory after a game winning goal three minutes and 16 seconds into overtime, scored by Katerina Mrazova at CAA Centre.

Daniela Pejsova initially opened the scoring for the Czech Republic with 37 seconds left in the first period, before Rui Ukita equalised in the third period for Japan.

Japan were kept in the game as goaltender Miyuu Masuhara saved 26 shots, while her counterpart Blanka Skodova saved 16.

The Japanese have now lost their first two games in Group A but gain a point for an overtime loss.

Czech Republic followed the United States and hosts Canada in winning their first Group A games but get just two points instead of three for winning in overtime.

In Group B, Germany beat Sweden 6-2, spearheaded by two goals and two assists from Celina Haider.

Franziska Feldmeier also scored twice, while Laura Kluge and Stenja Voigt added to the tally.

Sweden had earlier claimed the lead after just 10 seconds thanks to a goal from Hilda Svensson, who also scored her side's other effort.

In the other Group B match, Hungary handed France their second loss of the tournament with a 4-2 success.

Alexandra Huszak led the way with two goals, while Regina Metzler and Reka Dabasi were on the scorecard as well for the Hungarians.

Estelle Duvin and Athena Locatelli scored for France, but it was not enough as they remain pointless after two matches.

Finland, Germany and Hungary now sit at the top of Group B after winning their first games.

The World Championship will continue tomorrow with Group A matches between Switzerland and last year's runners-up the US, as well as defending champions Canada facing the Czech Republic.

In Group B, Finland will square of against Germany.

All five teams in Group A will reach the quarter-finals as it is the designated stronger pool.

The top three teams in Group B will join them.