Team Canada’s journey to the Gold Medal Game was nothing short of thrilling, echoing the nail-biting intensity of their Quarterfinals. With the game on the brink of overtime, Canada’s lethal power play seized the moment, clinching a 3-2 comeback victory over Team Finland.
Falling behind 2-0 after goals from Sebastian Aho and Erik Haula, Canada found a spark with Sam Reinhart’s deflection goal, closing the gap as they headed into the third period. The equalizer came with 9:26 left, thanks to Travis Sanheim’s primary assist setting up Shea Theodore’s game-tying score.
The drama peaked with just over two minutes to play when Niko Mikkola’s high-sticking penalty gave Canada a crucial power play. Nathan MacKinnon delivered the game-winner with a mere 35.2 seconds on the clock, sealing Canada’s spot in the final. Sanheim’s performance was solid, contributing an assist, three shots on goal, and finishing with a plus-1 rating in 12:38 of ice time.
For Team Finland and Rasmus Ristolainen, the quest for gold came to a halt. Ristolainen logged 20:37 on the ice, finishing with a plus-1. Finland now turns its focus to the bronze medal clash against Slovakia.
Meanwhile, Team USA showcased dominance in their Semifinal against Slovakia, cruising to a 6-2 victory. Dylan Larkin set the tone early, and Tage Thompson’s late first-period power play goal doubled the lead.
The second period saw Jack Hughes and Jack Eichel score just 19 seconds apart, breaking the game wide open. Hughes added another before the period ended, and Brady Tkachuk capped the scoring in the third.
Slovakia’s goals came from Juraj Slafkovsky and Pavol Regenda.
This victory propels Team USA into the Gold Medal Game for the first time since 2010, where they previously secured silver. It marks a significant moment for USA Hockey, as they aim for their first medal in men’s hockey since that memorable year.