Canada Learns A Hard Lesson As Team USA Dominates After National Anthem Boos

For a country that prides itself on hockey, Canada had little to celebrate after falling 3-1 to Team USA in the 4 Nations Face-Off. The game, played in Montreal, was filled with tension before the puck even hit the ice, as Canadian fans booed the Star-Spangled Banner in an open show of hostility toward the U.S.

The crowd’s energy spilled onto the ice as the game began with three fights within nine seconds. Matthew Tkachuk and Brandon Hagel clashed immediately, followed by Brady Tkachuk taking down Sam Bennett, and J.T. Miller going after Colton Parayko. The intense opening set the stage for a grueling battle.

Canada drew first blood as Connor McDavid maneuvered past defenders and scored with a well-placed backhand shot. However, Team USA wasted no time responding, with Jake Guentzel capitalizing on Canada’s shaky goaltending to tie the game. A costly error by Sidney Crosby, coupled with a poorly timed line change, handed Dylan Larkin the opportunity to put the Americans ahead. A final U.S. goal sealed Canada’s fate.

The Canadians were without key defenseman Cale Makar due to illness, but excuses won’t change the result. Now facing elimination, they must beat Finland in their next game, a team that the U.S. dismantled 6-1 just days earlier.

With Team USA proving it can outmatch its northern rival in the game that Canada holds dearest, this loss is more than just another defeat—it’s a reality check. The balance of power in North American hockey continues to shift, and Canada is struggling to keep up.

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