BOSTON (AP) — Connor McDavid scored the game-winning goal in overtime, lifting Canada to a thrilling 3-2 victory over the United States in the 4 Nations Face-Off final on Thursday night. The victory capped a highly charged tournament, transforming what was meant to be an Olympic tune-up into a geopolitical and sporting showdown.
A Dramatic Finish
With 8:18 gone in overtime, Canada won a faceoff in the U.S. zone. Mitch Marner controlled the puck along the boards before threading a perfect pass to McDavid in the slot. The Canadian captain wasted no time, burying the shot past U.S. goaltender Connor Hellebuyck to secure the win.
Canada’s bench erupted, pouring onto the ice in celebration before lining up for the traditional handshake with the Americans. Players then took turns skating with the newly introduced 4 Nations Face-Off trophy while fans in red jerseys belted out “O Canada” in the stands.
“It’s not an Olympic gold medal, but this means the world to our group,” McDavid said after the game. “I hope we put on a good show and gained some new fans along the way.”
A Fierce Rivalry Intensifies
The tournament, featuring Canada, the United States, Sweden, and Finland, was created as a showcase for NHL talent ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics. However, the Canada-U.S. final took on an extra layer of intensity due to recent political tensions between the two nations.
In the lead-up to the game, former U.S. President Donald Trump reignited debate by suggesting Canada could become the United States’ 51st state. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responded on social media, posting, “You can’t take our country—and you can’t take our game.”
This added fuel to an already historic hockey rivalry, with fans treating the matchup as more than just another championship game.
The Game Breakdown
Canada fell behind early as the United States took control in the first period. Brady Tkachuk opened the scoring for the Americans, finishing a slick passing play. Jake Sanderson doubled the lead, beating Canadian goaltender Jordan Binnington with a wrist shot from the point.
Canada responded in the second period, with Nathan MacKinnon netting his fourth goal of the tournament to cut the deficit in half. Later in the period, Sam Bennett tied the game 2-2, shifting momentum in favor of the Canadians.
The third period was a defensive battle, with Binnington making several key saves. The St. Louis Blues goaltender, who stopped 31 shots—including the last 20 in a row—proved to be a crucial difference-maker.
“I just tried to stay composed and focus on the next shot,” Binnington said. “We knew if we kept pushing, we’d get our chance.”
U.S. Players Hope for Payback in the Olympics
Despite the loss, American players remained optimistic about the future, with many eyeing a rematch in the 2026 Winter Olympics.
“This game was incredible for growing hockey,” said U.S. forward Dylan Larkin. “I hope it pushes guys to want a piece of this rivalry in the Olympics. We’ll be ready next time.”
The tournament’s success has already sparked discussion about making it a recurring event, giving North American hockey fans more chances to see their biggest stars battle on the international stage.
For now, though, Canada has the bragging rights.
“We wanted this one,” said Canadian forward Mark Stone. “Anytime you get to wear the maple leaf, it’s special. We felt the energy of 40 million Canadians behind us, and we weren’t going to let this one slip away.”
