The highly-anticipated 4 Nations Face-Off showdown between Canada and the United States certainly did not disappoint, largely thanks to the performances of American brothers Matthew and Brady Tkachuk.
USA’s thrilling 3-1 victory had it all: highlight reel saves, raw emotions and hard hits. An all-out war on ice between the two international hockey powerhouses. But without a doubt, the highlight of the game was the first nine seconds, which featured three (!) vintage hockey fights.
Matthew Tkachuk and Brandon Hagel dropped the gloves three seconds into the game. A fight between Sam Bennett and Brady Tkachuk followed that. And then six seconds later, fellow American forward J.T. Miller scrapped with Canada defenseman Colton Parayko.
Speaking to reporters after the game, Matthew and Brady Tkachuk revealed that the fights were pre-planned. Matthew asked his younger brother to “tell the truth,” which led to a priceless response from the Ottawa Senators captain, per Mollie Walker of the New York Post.
“Yeah there was a group chat going on today,” Brady said.
Connor McDavid opened the scoring for Canada in the first period, but USA goalie Connor Hellebuyck closed the door the rest of the way. The Winnipeg Jets’ All-Star netminder had 25 saves in the victory.
Jake Guentzel scored two goals for the Americans, with Dylan Larkin’s second-period tally holding up as the winner. The USA clinched a trip to the finals, with Canada, Finland, and Sweden all competing for the second berth in the championship game.
Canada Can Set Up A Rematch With Victory Over Finland
The good news for Canada is that despite the disheartening loss, they control their destiny. A regulation win over Finland would set up a rematch with the United States in the championship game on Thursday.
If Canada defeats Finland in overtime or a shootout, they just need the Americans to avoid a regulation loss to Sweden. A USA victory of any fashion or a Sweden win beyond regulation, would send Canada to the championship game.
