On February 20, 2025 the United States and Canada played in the championship game of the NHL’s 4 Nations Face-Off at TD Garden in Boston. The thrilling game extended into overtime, with Canada ultimately winning 3-2.
Canada and the United States are historic rivals in hockey. The teams had met only a few days prior in a preliminary game that saw three fights break out in the first nine seconds. Many people have viewed these games through the lens of the current political situation, with increased tensions over booing of the national anthems. At the end of the day, it is a hockey game that is meant to showcase each nation’s NHL talent.
During the championship game, Canada struck first, with Nathan MacKinnon putting the puck in the net early at 4:48 of the first period. The Canadians in the crowd were full of cheers, but the U.S. responded less than 12 minutes later, with a Brady Tkachuk goal, tying the game at 1-1.
In the second period, the U.S. grabbed the lead with a goal from Jake Sanderson at 7:32, putting them up 2-1. Once again, Canada fought back, with Sam Bennett scoring at 14:00. This goal tied the game at 2-2, setting the stage for an exciting finish.
The third period saw both teams battling hard for the win, but the goalies were on fire, making some incredible saves to keep the game tied. With neither team able to score, the game went into sudden-death overtime. Canada’s Connor McDavid took control of the puck in the extra period and found the back of the net at 8:18, giving Canada a 3-2 victory. McDavid showed everyone why he is considered one of the best players in the world, and set off the Canadian fans in the stands.
Though the game ended in Canada’s favor, both teams fought incredibly hard, playing through injuries and incredible pressure to make their country proud. This game was not just about the score—it was about the passion, the intensity, and the tradition that has made USA vs. Canada has one of the most exciting matchups in international hockey.
Link to a video recapping the game- https://youtu.be/GXetp-xfqOY?si=6Z_euVTUYaFimgI1
