Canada Suffers Defeat Against US In Hockey Showdown After Anthem Boos

Team USA delivered a crushing 3-1 victory over Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off, proving they could outplay their northern rival in a game Canada has long considered its own. The loss came after Canadian fans at the Bell Centre booed the US national anthem, further fueling tensions between the two countries.

The animosity was apparent from the start, as three fights broke out within the first nine seconds. Matthew Tkachuk went after Brandon Hagel, Brady Tkachuk took on Sam Bennett, and J.T. Miller battled Colton Parayko. The physical play set the tone for the rest of the game.

Canada found early success when Connor McDavid beat the US defense and lifted a backhand shot over Connor Hellebuyck to take a 1-0 lead. However, the Americans responded quickly, as Jake Guentzel slipped a shot past Jordan Binnington to even the score.

A mistake by Canada’s veteran leader Sidney Crosby proved costly. A misplayed puck and a slow line change allowed Dylan Larkin to take advantage of a 2-on-1 break, giving the US the lead. Another American goal later sealed Canada’s fate.

The absence of defenseman Cale Makar was noticeable, but it didn’t change the fact that Canada was unable to keep up with the relentless pace of their opponents. They must now defeat Finland in their next game or risk elimination.

As the US advances to the finals, Canada is left to reconsider whether its claim to hockey dominance still holds up.