During the first period of the 4 Nations Face-Off hockey game on Monday, February 17, 2025, in Boston, Brady Tkachuk of Team USA crashed into the goalpost while chasing the puck toward Sweden’s goaltender, Samuel Ersson. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
Hockey fans got their wish: a high-stakes rematch between the United States and Canada in the 4 Nations Face-Off championship. Despite losing 2-1 to Sweden in the round-robin finale, the U.S. had already secured its spot in the final. Canada joined them by defeating Finland 5-3 earlier in the day.
Sweden, though victorious, needed a Canadian loss to advance, leaving them out of contention despite their strong performance.
Sweden’s Strong Comeback Falls Short
The game started fast, with Chris Kreider scoring for the U.S. just 35 seconds in. But Sweden quickly regrouped—Gustav Nyquist equalized 12 minutes later, and Jesper Bratt netted the game-winner just before the first period ended.
From then on, Swedish goalie Samuel Ersson stole the show, blocking all 31 U.S. shots for the remainder of the game.
Even with the loss, the Americans were already looking ahead.
“They’ll be coming hard. They don’t want to lose twice to us,” said U.S. forward Dylan Larkin, referring to the upcoming clash with Canada.
Canada’s Grit Secures Final Spot
Canada nearly let a four-goal lead slip against Finland but managed to close out a 5-3 win. That sealed their spot in the final—a rematch of Saturday’s intense, penalty-filled battle against the U.S.
U.S. coach Mike Sullivan expects another showdown.
“It’ll be a battle,” he said. “Watching these guys compete at this level is incredible. I have the best seat in the house.”
Boston Fans Bring the Energy
TD Garden was electric, with U.S. fans in powdered wigs and colonial-style hats chanting “U-S-A!” in response to Canadian fans who had booed the American anthem in Montreal. But their cheers couldn’t will the U.S. to victory this time.
With goalie Jake Oettinger pulled for an extra attacker, the Americans pushed hard for a tying goal, but Ersson shut the door, securing Sweden’s win.
Injury Setbacks for U.S.
The U.S. played shorthanded without star Auston Matthews. They took another hit when Brady Tkachuk left in the second period after colliding with Ersson. Bruins fans were also disappointed as hometown favourite Charlie McAvoy was scratched from the lineup.
Despite the setback, the U.S. isn’t seeking replacements.
“We’re hoping to get some of these guys back,” Sullivan said.
Now, the focus shifts to Thursday’s final. After their heated round-robin clash, the U.S. and Canada are set for an epic rematch with everything on the line.
