Canada Survives Thrilling Overtime Win in 4 Nations Face-Off
MONTREAL – The eagerly anticipated first best-on-best tournament featuring NHL players in nine years was a thriller from start to finish. Canada, with stars like Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, and the legendary Sidney Crosby, faced a stinging challenge from Sweden in the opening game of the 4 Nations Face-Off.
The match began with a dominant start by Canada, scoring the first goal in just under a minute thanks to a McDavid, Crosby, and MacKinnon collaboration. However, Sweden, empowered by the hometown support, rallied spectacularly with goals from Jonas Brodin and Adrian Kempe. The momentum shifted further in the third period when Joel Eriksson Ek, a teammate of Brodin’s on the Minnesota Wild, tied the score 3-3, sending the game into overtime.
MITCH MARNER!!! 🚨
He wins it for Canada in just an amazing overtime! 🍁 #4Nations pic.twitter.com/lcXpPbkoBw
— NHL (@NHL) February 13, 2025
Wild Buddies Turn Game Upside Down
The comeback was not only emotional but also historical. Joel Eriksson Ek and Jonas Brodin, two Minnesota Wild teammates from Karlstad, Sweden, were crucial in shaking the Canadian lead. Their hometown connection and bond from playing together in their youth and current league made their contributions even more impactful.
Brodin gets Sweden on the board 🇸🇪 pic.twitter.com/WjO6mOTyVy
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) February 13, 2025
Eriksson Ek’s goal in the third period came as Sweden had been playing tirelessly to surge back into the game. Their resilience and unity outside of the rink translated into an impressive performance, with both players scoring in crucial moments.
JESPER BRATT TO JOEL ERIKSSON EK! SWEDEN TIES IT UP AT 3 IN THE THIRD PERIOD 🇸🇪#4Nations pic.twitter.com/vFnfXU9MQE
— Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights & News (@HockeyDaily365) February 13, 2025
Biggest Fear Comes to Fruition in First Game
The tournament’s most significant concern was the risk of injury to vital players. Early in the second period, Shea Theodore, a defenseman for the Vegas Golden Knights, was injured on a routine check from Adrian Kempe. Theo’s departure had a substantial impact on Canada’s lineup, forcing the team to play with five defensemen for an extended period.
Shea Theodore goes to the Canada locker room after a collision with Adrian Kempe pic.twitter.com/nXjUlX8QdM
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) February 13, 2025
Coach Jon Cooper acknowledged the injury’s magnitude, stating that Theodore’s absence was felt strongly. However, Travis Sanheim stepped in splendidly, contributing significantly to Canada’s defense.
‘Sid the Kid’ Looks Like Sid the Kid
Sidney Crosby, at 37, showcased his prowess on the ice, proving that age is just a number. Crosby’s contributions were pivotal, setting up two crucial goals in the game, including the overtime winner by McDavid.
Sidney Crosby with another FILTHY assist, this time to Mark Stone 🤢🇨🇦 pic.twitter.com/Yvw6OgmCdO
— Gino Hard (@GinoHard_) February 13, 2025
His exceptional play highlighted his enduring greatness, inspiring teammates and steering Canada toward victory. Crosby’s ability to read the game and make decisive plays was a testament to his experience and skill.
Canada’s Sublime Power Play Connects Immediately
Canada’s first power-play goal set the tone for the match, showcasing their well-rehearsed and potent man-advantage unit. Crosby played a crucial role, facilitating an efficient playmaking sequence that culminated in a beautiful goal by MacKinnon.
MCDAVID ➡️ CROSBY ➡️ MACKINNON
CANADA’S POWER PLAY OPENS UP #4NATIONS FACE-OFF WITH A BANG 💥🇨🇦 pic.twitter.com/5qzZNIxeVw
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) February 13, 2025
The team’s preparation for special teams was evident, with Crosby leading discussions to enhance their effectiveness. MacKinnon and Crosby’s synergy was on full display, reminding fans of their teamwork from the 2015 IIHF World Championships.
Don’t Hear This Every Day
Among the many memorable moments, the ovation for Brad Marchand by Canadian fans added a unique flavor. Despite being a despised figure among Montreal Habs fans for his rivalry with the team, Marchand’s assist in scoring Canada’s second goal was met with applause in the Bell Centre.
Canada is 8-0 all-time when Brad Marchand scores
(World Cup & World Championship) pic.twitter.com/BI05Evosum— Sportsnet Stats (@SNstats) February 13, 2025
Marchand’s reaction, showcasing his trademark cheeky grin, epitomized the dichotomy of his career—both a valuable player for Canada and a nemesis for the Habs. This moment highlighted the complex interplay of sports rivalries and national pride.
Appreciation for 10-Minute Overtime
The 10-minute overtime period added a dramatic element to the game, leading to a memorable winner by Mitch Marner. McDavid praised this format, suggesting it aligns with player preferences and enhances fan engagement.
FILIP GUSTAVSSON MY GOODNESS 😮 #4Nations
🇺🇸: @NHL_On_TNT & @SportsonMax ➡️ https://t.co/4TuyIATi3T
🇨🇦: @Sportsnet or stream on Sportsnet+ ➡️ https://t.co/4KjbdjVctF pic.twitter.com/YIxZyioSpL— NHL (@NHL) February 13, 2025
McDavid emphasized that it felt more inclusive and within the players’ control, unlike the typical shootout format. The extended overtime provided a platform for dramatic and memorable finishes, consistent with the high-stakes nature of the tournament.
The 4 Nations Face-Off continues this week, with the United States facing Finland on Thursday. Canada will next take on their rivals, the United States, on Saturday. The tournament not only showcases NHL talent but also highlights the camaraderie and skills that define professional hockey at its finest.
(Photo of Mark Stone, Nathan MacKinnon and Sidney Crosby: Minas Panagiotakis / Getty Images)
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