NEWARK, NJ — The inaugural 4 Nations Face-Off tournament has captivated hockey fans worldwide, culminating in a highly anticipated rematch between Team USA and Team Canada. The championship game is scheduled for tomorrow night, February 20, at 8 p.m. ET at Boston’s TD Garden. This tournament, featuring elite NHL players from the United States, Canada, Finland, and Sweden, has successfully revitalized international hockey competitions.
The rivalry between the U.S. and Canada reached a fever pitch during their recent matchup in Montreal. The game was marked by intense physicality, including three fights within the first nine seconds, setting the tone for a fierce contest.
Team USA emerged victorious with a 3-1 win, thanks to goals from Jake Guentzel and Dylan Larkin, and a stellar 25-save performance by goalie Connor Hellebuyck. This victory not only boosted Team USA’s confidence but also drew a record 10.1 million viewers across North America, a 203% increase compared to their 2016 World Cup of Hockey clash.
However, Team USA faces a significant challenge heading into the final. Star defenseman Charlie McAvoy has been ruled out due to a shoulder infection that required hospitalization. In his absence, Quinn Hughes has been called up as a replacement, though his participation remains uncertain. Despite these setbacks, forwards Matthew Tkachuk and Auston Matthews are expected to play, even if not at 100%.
With three fights going down in the first nine seconds, Team USA defeated Team Canada last Saturday in Montreal, Canada. Less than a week later, both teams meet again – Image Credit: Vitor Munhoz/4NFO/Getty Images
The political climate has also added an extra layer of intensity to the rivalry. During the previous game in Montreal, Canadian fans expressed their displeasure with recent U.S. political actions by booing the American national anthem. This sentiment, fueled by geopolitical tensions, has only intensified the on-ice competition.
As both teams prepare for the final showdown, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Team USA aims to secure its first best-on-best international championship since the 1996 World Cup of Hockey, while Canada seeks to continue its dominance in international play. Tickets for the game have become highly sought after, with prices starting at $783.
Sidney Crosby, a star for Team Canada and legend of the Pittsburgh Penguins – Image Credit: NHL
For those unable to attend in person, the game will be broadcast live on ESPN and ESPN+ in the U.S., and on Sportsnet and TVA Sports in Canada.
With national pride and international bragging rights on the line, the upcoming USA vs. Canada final promises to be a historic and unforgettable hockey event.
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