BOSTON (AP) — In a remarkable display of international hockey, Canada emerged victorious over the United States in the 4 Nations Face-Off, thanks to a stunning overtime goal by Connor McDavid. The Canadian team celebrated their 3-2 win with the national anthem "O Canada," reverberating across the American home ice, while fans in red jerseys sang along.
Connor McDavid's decisive goal at 8:18 of overtime was the culmination of a match that transformed from a tune-up for the 2026 Olympics into a geopolitical spectacle. The Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau even chimed in on social media, highlighting the broader significance of the game beyond the rink.
"You can’t take our country — and you can’t take our game," Trudeau posted, alluding to previous discussions about Canada becoming the 51st U.S. state. Nathan MacKinnon, the tournament MVP, emphasized the unexpected popularity and continental attention the event garnered.
Canadian goalie Jordan Binnington was instrumental in the victory, stopping 31 shots, with a remarkable streak of 20 consecutive saves. His performance on the same ice where he led the St. Louis Blues to a Stanley Cup victory was a significant factor in Canada’s win. Sam Bennett and Nathan MacKinnon also contributed to Canada’s scoring, leading to a 2-2 tie that lasted until the overtime period.
The U.S. team, with goals from Brady Tkachuk and Jake Sanderson, and notable saves by Connor Hellebuyck, showcased resilience but ultimately fell short. The game’s intensity was heightened by political tensions, including former President Donald Trump's tariffs and the idea of Canada as the 51st state, which added a layer of drama to the rivalry.
The match drew comparisons to historic games, such as the 1980 Olympic "Miracle on Ice," with fans in team jerseys chanting and waving flags. The game was preceded by a poignant tribute to Johnny Gaudreau, a former Boston College and Calgary Flames star.
Despite the loss, U.S. forward Dylan Larkin expressed hope that the match would inspire future generations to embrace international hockey, especially with the Olympics on the horizon. The event not only underscored the fierce North American rivalry but also celebrated the unifying power of hockey.
In the end, Canada’s Mark Stone encapsulated the sentiment, stating, "You’ve got 40 million Canadians, sitting at home, and you feel the energy. It brings us together." The Canadian victory in the 4 Nations Face-Off was a moment of national pride and a testament to their prowess in international hockey.
