The rivalry between Team USA and Team Canada reached new levels of intensity during the 4 Nations Face-Off as the United States defeated Canada 3-1 in a heated battle at Montreal’s Bell Centre. The game, which secured Team USA a spot in the championship, erupted into three fights within the first nine seconds, fueled by Canadian fans booing the U.S. national anthem.
Anthem Boos Ignite Chaos on the Ice
The already electric atmosphere turned volatile when Canadian fans loudly booed “The Star-Spangled Banner” before puck drop. The disrespectful display seemed to light a fire under Team USA, as players wasted no time dropping the gloves and setting the tone for a bruising contest.
Just nine seconds into the game, multiple fights broke out, including a marquee brawl between Matthew Tkachuk and Brandon Hagel. Players from both sides squared off in what instantly became one of the most intense USA vs. Canada clashes in recent memory.
? HOCKEY BRAWL ALERT ?
USA vs. Canada game turned into a BATTLEGROUND in RECORD TIME! ????
3 FIGHTS broke out in just 9 SECONDS after Canadian fans BOOED the US National Anthem!
This is more than hockey; it’s WAR on ICE! #4Nations #RespectTheFlag pic.twitter.com/a7u5D2nQAp
— Jesus G. Navarro ?? (@realjgnavarro) February 16, 2025
USA Responds with Grit and Goals
Despite the early momentum swing for Canada, with Connor McDavid scoring an opening goal, Team USA refused to be rattled. The Americans regrouped and responded with physical, aggressive play, dictating the pace of the game.
Dylan Larkin delivered the go-ahead goal in the second period, putting Team USA in the lead, while Jake Guentzel sealed the win with an empty-net goal in the final minutes.
Historic Victory Ends Canadian Dominance
This victory was more than just a win—it was a statement. The USA ended Canada’s 17-game winning streak in best-on-best international competition and secured its first victory over Canada in 15 years.
Adding to the political and emotional weight of the night, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was in attendance, witnessing firsthand the frustration and disappointment of the home crowd as Team USA celebrated a defining moment in the rivalry.
USA hockey team intensely chants to celebrate their victory over Canada on Saturday:
“We just kicked their f*cking a**!” pic.twitter.com/gDqgdJysaS
— Paul A. Szypula ?? (@Bubblebathgirl) February 16, 2025
Looking Ahead to the Championship
With this high-energy, fight-heavy win, Team USA heads to the championship game with momentum on its side. Meanwhile, Canada will have to regroup and reflect on a rare home-ice loss against its biggest rival.
This classic showdown in Montreal won’t soon be forgotten, proving once again that when USA and Canada meet on the ice, fireworks are guaranteed.