4 NATIONS: McDavid & Canada hold off Finland to earn rematch with United States

In the world of international hockey, few matchups garner as much anticipation as the rivalry between Canada and the United States. These two hockey powerhouses have a rich history of intense competition, both in the Olympics and in various international tournaments. The 2024 Four Nations Tournament provided the perfect stage for yet another chapter in this storied rivalry, and it was a thrilling path for Team Canada to secure their rematch with the United States, thanks to a gritty 4-2 victory over Finland.

Led by the remarkable talent of Connor McDavid, arguably the best player in the world today, Canada’s victory over Finland wasn’t just a matter of skill and finesse—it was a testament to their resilience and mental toughness in a high-stakes tournament setting. Finland, known for their disciplined and hard-nosed play, tested Canada in every area of the ice. The battle was fierce, and Canada had to dig deep to preserve their lead and ensure a shot at redemption against their North American rivals.

Let’s break down how the game played out, what it means for Canada’s future in the tournament, and why the upcoming rematch with the United States will likely be one of the most anticipated games of the year in international hockey.

The Road to the Rematch: Canada vs. Finland

From the opening puck drop, it was clear that this game would be no easy task for Canada. Finland, led by their well-structured defensive game and their veteran leadership, played with the precision and poise that have become hallmarks of their national program. The Finnish players, while not as flashy as their Canadian counterparts, rely on strong positional play, quick transitions, and a gritty forecheck that can wear down even the most skilled teams.

Canada, on the other hand, had the clear advantage in terms of raw offensive talent. With players like McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, and Sidney Crosby on the ice, it was difficult to imagine Finland holding Canada at bay for long periods. However, Finland’s defense remained firm early on, blocking shots, keeping the Canadians to the perimeter, and forcing them into difficult situations. Finland’s goaltender, Juuse Saros, stood tall in net, keeping his team in the game despite the pressure applied by Team Canada.

The first period was a back-and-forth affair. Both teams had their moments, but neither was able to find the back of the net. Canada’s top line of McDavid, Crosby, and MacKinnon generated several good chances, but Saros was equal to the task. On the other side, Finland had some solid looks of their own, including a couple of near-miss opportunities that had Canadian goaltender Carter Hart on alert.

Despite the lack of goals, the pace of the game was frenetic. The energy was palpable, and it was clear this was a critical game for both sides. Finland knew they needed a win to keep their championship hopes alive, while Canada was determined to maintain their dominance and earn a shot at the U.S.

A Breakthrough in the Second Period

After a scoreless first, it was Canada that would break the deadlock in the second period. Connor McDavid, as he has done so often in his career, took control of the game. Known for his unmatched speed and playmaking ability, McDavid found a pocket of space and made an electric move around Finland’s defense. With a quick, pinpoint pass to MacKinnon, the two exchanged a series of slick passes before MacKinnon buried the puck past Saros for a 1-0 lead.

The Canadian team had the upper hand, but Finland wasn’t going to go down easily. They responded just minutes later with a goal of their own, tying the game at 1-1. Finland’s standout forward, Patrik Laine, displayed his trademark shooting ability on a one-timer, ripping the puck past Hart on the power play. The goal ignited a wave of momentum for Finland, and suddenly the game became even more of a battle.

Canada, however, regained their composure. After Finland’s equalizer, the Canadians applied more pressure and began to find their rhythm. McDavid, once again, was at the center of the action. On a breakaway, he utilized his unmatched skating ability to blow by Finland’s defenders, drawing Saros out of position before setting up teammate Mark Stone for the go-ahead goal. The precision of McDavid’s pass showed why he’s regarded as one of the greatest playmakers in the world.

With a 2-1 lead heading into the final period, Canada had a narrow advantage, but it was clear they would have to weather a storm from the Finns.

Finland’s Fight and Canada’s Resilience

As expected, Finland came out strong in the third period, knowing that they needed to score in order to keep their hopes of a championship alive. They dominated the early stages of the period, with Canadian goaltender Carter Hart coming up with a series of big saves. Laine had a breakaway of his own, but Hart was quick with the glove to deny him. Finland’s relentless pressure resulted in a flurry of shots on Hart, but the young Canadian goaltender remained calm and collected under the weight of the Finns’ attack.

Canada’s penalty kill also played a crucial role in maintaining their lead. With Finland’s dangerous power play lurking, Canada’s special teams stepped up, preventing Finland from taking advantage of several power play opportunities in the final frame.

The turning point came with just under five minutes remaining. Canada took a penalty, giving Finland a final chance to tie the game. As the clock ticked down, McDavid and Crosby provided their usual strong defensive work, blocking shots and clearing pucks out of the defensive zone. When the penalty expired, it was clear that Finland’s chances of tying the game were slipping away. With Saros pulled for an extra attacker, McDavid sealed the win with an empty-net goal, putting Canada up 4-2.

The Impact of the Win on Canada’s Road to the Final

With the victory, Canada advanced to the final of the 2024 Four Nations Tournament, where they would face their bitter rivals, the United States. This game was set to be a rematch of one of the fiercest rivalries in hockey. The U.S. had already earned their spot in the final, and the anticipation of the matchup was off the charts.

For Canada, this win over Finland not only secured a spot in the championship game but also sent a message to their competition. The team showed that they could withstand pressure from one of the toughest teams in international hockey. With the leadership of McDavid, Crosby, and the other veterans, Canada was once again a formidable force on the world stage. Their combination of skill, experience, and defensive awareness made them a well-rounded squad capable of winning it all.

The McDavid Factor

Connor McDavid was undoubtedly the star of the game for Canada. His ability to control the play and make key passes under pressure was a difference-maker in the game against Finland. McDavid’s influence on the ice goes beyond just scoring goals; it’s his vision and hockey IQ that set him apart from his peers. Every time he touches the puck, he creates a threat, and he consistently makes players around him better.

In the final, McDavid’s ability to create scoring chances and elevate the play of those around him will be crucial in the matchup against the United States. With so much on the line, McDavid’s performance will likely determine whether Canada can come out on top.

Looking Ahead: Canada vs. the United States

The stage is set for what will surely be an epic showdown between Canada and the United States. These two countries have met countless times on the international stage, and the rivalry between the two has become one of the defining storylines in hockey. Both teams are loaded with talent, and the final promises to be an exciting and physical affair.

The United States has a deep roster of elite players, including Auston Matthews, Jack Hughes, and Adam Fox, while Canada will rely on the leadership of McDavid, Crosby, and the experience of their defensive core. Both teams have been playing at a high level, and each side will bring their own strengths to the table.

For Canada, this rematch is about more than just the Four Nations title. It’s about pride, redemption, and continuing their legacy as one of the world’s premier hockey nations. The United States will be gunning for their own chance at glory, hoping to take down their northern rivals and assert their dominance.