The United States dominated Finland 6-1 in the 4 Nations Face-Off opener, led by outstanding performances from Matt Boldy and Jake Guentzel.
Matthew Tkachuk scored twice for the Americans, with Brady Tkachuk adding a second goal to seal the win. The US team received 20 saves from Connor Hellebuyck, who also chipped in three assists. Zach Werenski added three more assists, while Jack Eichel had two goals and an assist.
The Finnish team’s only goal came courtesy of Henri Jokiharju at 7:31 of the first period. Juuse Saros made 26 saves for Finland but was unable to stop the American onslaught.
The US is currently leading the standings with three points, followed by Canada with two, Sweden with one, and Finland with zero. The Canadians and Americans will face off on Saturday night.
Tensions rose during the game when some fans booed the American national anthem ahead of puck drop, a phenomenon that has been seen in other Canadian sporting events following tariff threats from US President Donald Trump. However, players like Matthew Tkachuk remained focused on the task at hand, saying “it’s all good” after facing jeers.
The 4 Nations Face-Off is being touted as the closest men’s hockey has come to a best-on-best event since the 2016 World Cup, with top players from Canada, Sweden, Finland, and the US competing in a highly anticipated tournament.
Source: https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/united-states-unleashes-in-third-period-to-rout-finland-at-4-nations-face-off