Canada overcame defending champions the United States in a 10-goal thriller ©IIHF

Canada overcame defending champions the United States in a 10-goal thriller as the International Ice Hockey Federation U18 World Championship began in Russia today.

The Canadian side, who last won the event in 2013, recorded a thrilling 6-4 victory in the Group A encounter at the Arena Metallurg in Magnitogorsk.

Joel Farabee opened the scoring for the US, winners of seven of the last nine titles, before Alexis Lafreniere levelled at the end of the first period.

America retook the lead through Oliver Wahlstrom but three unanswered goals from Canada moved them to the brink of an opening day triumph.

Liam Foudy restored parity for the Canadians and they went ahead when Kevin Bahl found the net.

Raphael Lavoie added a fourth late in the second period but it was not the end of the scoring.

Sweden began their campaign with a win as they beat Switzerland ©IIHF
Sweden began their campaign with a win as they beat Switzerland ©IIHF

Quick-fire goals from Wahlstrom and Jack Hughes brought the US level before Lavoie swung the pendulum back in favour of Canada with his side's fifth.

Akil Thomas then sealed a dramatic victory for Canada in the dying stages.

In the other match in Group A, Sweden clinched a 3-1 win over Switzerland.

Last year's bronze medallists Russia also began with victory as they thrashed France 7-1 in Group B at the Traktor Ice Arena in Chelyabinsk.

Finland also got their campaign off to the best possible start as they beat Slovakia 5-2.

The tournament is due to continue tomorrow.