China, Sweden near semifinal spots in men's Olympic curling

SOCHI, Russia, Feb. 15 (UPI) -- China and Sweden moved to the brink of a spot in the men's Olympic curling semifinals Saturday and Canada won its fourth match in a row.

The Chinese and Swedes both picked up a win in the lone session of men's curling to remain tied for the top of the round-robin tournament standings at 6-1. Each of those teams needs only one more win or a loss by fifth-place Norway the rest of the way to secure a place in the semifinals.

China defeated Russia 9-6 while Sweden was an 8-4 winner over Germany.

After opening the tournament with a 1-2 record, the two-time defending champion Canadians have put together a victory streak that gives them a 5-2 mark. Canada pulled an out an 8-6 win on Saturday over Britain, which is also 5-2 for the event.

Norway is the only other team with a chance to break into the semifinal picture. The Norwegians, who had the day off, are 3-3.

The top four teams at the end of the nine-game tournament earn a semifinal berth.