BOSTON — The highly anticipated face-off between the United States and Canada in the 4 Nations Face-Off left players and fans eager for more action. The North American rivals are set for a rematch in the championship game, despite the U.S. team suffering a narrow 2-1 defeat to Sweden in their final round-robin game on Monday. The outcome did not impede their progression to the title match, as they had already secured their position earlier in the tournament. Meanwhile, Canada solidified its spot in the final by overcoming Finland with a score of 5-3 earlier that day, wrapping up the group stage successfully.
U.S. coach Mike Sullivan expressed great enthusiasm about the upcoming battle, noting, “It will be a hard-fought battle. That’s what I would anticipate. I feel like I get the best seat in the house, being behind the bench and being up close to it. To watch what these guys do on the ice at the pace that they’re capable of, sometimes we just marvel at what goes on up there.”
The game against Sweden saw the Americans take an early lead just 35 seconds in, only to witness Sweden make a comeback after a tying goal from Gustav Nyquist and a go-ahead goal by Jesper Bratt before the end of the first period. Sweden’s goalie, Samuel Ersson, proved crucial to the victory, performing exceptionally well with 31 saves and leaving the U.S. scoreless for the duration of the match.
Although the game was not critical for the U.S. as they were already qualified for the championship, it had implications for Sweden, who needed help from other teams to proceed to the finals. U.S. forward Jack Hughes acknowledged the skills of the Swedish team, adding, “I don’t think there was too much of a shock. They’re obviously a great team, and I know they’re champing at the bit to get us again. We’re really excited that we get them, and that’s kind of what we were looking for.”
The TD Garden erupted in patriotic fervor before the game, with fans donning powdered wigs and tricorn hats while singing “The Star-Spangled Banner.” In response to Canadian fans who had booed the U.S. anthem in Montreal, the American crowd raised their voices, chanting “U-S-A!” as they rallied behind their team, especially during the thrilling final moments when goalie Jake Oettinger was pulled for an extra skater.
As the match concluded without the much-desired overtime for the Americans, attention shifted to the championship. Coach Sullivan highlighted the significance of the upcoming match, stating, “The first game was such a great hockey game. I think it’s great for hockey that there’s an opportunity for these two teams to meet again. Both teams have star power throughout their lineups. I would anticipate the next one will be every bit as competitive, if not more.”
The U.S. faced Sweden shorthanded, missing key player Auston Matthews, and also saw Brady Tkachuk exit the game after a collision with Ersson. Boston fans were disappointed to see Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy scratched from the lineup. Sullivan confirmed that the team was not looking to add new players to the roster but held out hope for the return of some injured athletes.
