The wait is over for hockey fans as the United States and Canada face off in a highly anticipated matchup at the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament. The game, which pits the sport’s established power against its ascendant power, has been circled on calendars for months.
Top American and Canadian players have waited nearly a decade to compete in a best-on-best environment, with the rivalry between the two nations burning white hot at the world under-18 championship and world junior tournament. This game is the truest measuring stick of global hockey supremacy.
The matchup will be played in Montreal, a city that arguably appreciates the sport unlike any other. The Bell Centre, where the game will take place, has hosted some of the most intense rivalries in sports, including World Juniors games between Canada and the US.
Tensions have been high between the two countries, with U.S. President Donald Trump repeatedly musing about turning Canada into the 51st state since taking office last month. Some fans even booed “The Star-Spangled Banner” before Thursday’s game, drawing criticism from Canadian players who see it as a moment to show respect for veterans and millions of people who sacrificed their lives.
Despite the politics, both teams are hungry for victory, with the US looking to claim hockey supremacy in the coming years. For the US, this game is not just about winning, but about proving they belong among the world’s best.
“We want to play as best as we can and win,” said Matthew Tkachuk of the US team. “We want to be known as the best, and to do that you’re going to have to beat the best.”
The game promises to be a thrilling matchup between two of hockey’s greatest rivalries, with millions of fans watching around the world to see which team comes out on top.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6136669/2025/02/14/canada-usa-4-nations-face-off