The highly anticipated championship match of the 4 Nations Face-Off will see the USA and Canada go head-to-head on Thursday night in Boston. In the previous round robin encounter, the Americans emerged victorious with a 3-1 win. However, history shows that Canada holds the upper hand when it comes to championship games in best-on-best tournaments against the United States. Let’s take a closer look at the past championship matchups between the USA and Canada:
2010 Olympics: Canada 3, USA 2 (OT)
In a thrilling contest, the Americans managed to tie the game with just 25 seconds remaining in regulation through a goal by Zach Parise. The excitement continued into overtime when Sidney Crosby of the Pittsburgh Penguins scored the golden goal at 7:40, securing the victory for Canada. This triumph marked the beginning of a successful international streak for Canada, as they went on to win the 2014 Olympics (defeating the USA in the semifinals) and the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, with Crosby earning the MVP title.
2002 Olympics: Canada 5, USA 2
Despite having the home crowd advantage in Utah and legendary coach Herb Brooks from the “Miracle on Ice” era, the United States fell short against Canada. Future Hall of Famers Jarome Iginla and Joe Sakic each scored twice, while Paul Kariya also found the back of the net as Canada overcame deficits to claim Olympic gold for the first time since 1952, with Martin Brodeur making 31 saves.
1996 World Cup of Hockey: USA wins final series 2-1
This tournament, along with the iconic 1980 Olympics, remains one of the proudest moments for USA Hockey. After losing the opening game in Philadelphia, the Americans staged a remarkable comeback, winning two games in Montreal to clinch the title. Overcoming one-goal deficits, the USA team stunned Canada with a late surge, scoring four goals in the final four minutes of the deciding match. Notably, Keith Tkachuk, father of current 4 Nations Face-Off players Matthew and Brady Tkachuk, was a standout performer, netting five goals in the tournament.
1991 Canada Cup: Canada wins final series 2-0
In this memorable showdown, Canada dominated the final series with convincing 4-1 and 4-2 victories. Steve Larmer of Canada showcased his talent, contributing two goals (including a short-handed one) and an assist in the second game.
As the stage is set for another thrilling encounter between the USA and Canada in the 4 Nations Face-Off final, history seems to favor the Canadians.
