By Myrek Zastavnyi
The Four Nations Tournament, held from February 12 to 20, 2025, has become a true hockey spectacle. Organized by the NHL instead of the traditional All-Star Game, this tournament has brought together the best players from Canada, the U.S., Finland, and Sweden. Now, after an intense group stage battle, the finalists are set: Team USA will face Canada in the decisive showdown.
Team USA’s Road to the Final
The American team started the tournament with a commanding 6-1 victory over Finland, demonstrating dominance in all areas of the ice. Auston Matthews stood out in particular, recording a goal and two assists. The defense, led by Charlie McAvoy and Adam Fox, gave their opponents little chance.
The second match against Canada was crucial for the Americans. Mike Sullivan’s team secured a 3-1 win, sending a strong message ahead of a potential final rematch. Jack Eichel and Matthew Tkachuk shined in the attack, while goaltender Connor Hellebuyck made 31 saves, acting as a brick wall against the Canadian offense.
However, their final group stage game against Sweden ended in a 2-1 defeat. This match raised concerns for Team USA, as their power play units struggled to convert opportunities, and defensive gaps began to appear. Nevertheless, their accumulated points were enough to secure a spot in the final.
Canada: A Rival That Can’t Be Underestimated
Canada, traditionally one of the favorites in any international tournament, also advanced through the group stage with two wins and one loss. They fell to the U.S. 3-1 but secured victories over Finland (5-3) and Sweden (4-3 in overtime), earning their place in the final. The team’s leader, Connor McDavid, has showcased phenomenal speed and skill in every game. Captain Sidney Crosby plays a key role in blending youth and experience within the squad.
Canada has a deeper roster than the U.S. and boasts a powerful offensive line featuring stars like Nathan MacKinnon and Brayden Point. Goaltender Jordan Binnington hasn’t been flawless in the group stage, but his NHL playoff experience could be a major advantage in the decisive game.
Final Prediction
The biggest question of the final is whether Team USA can defeat Canada for the second time in a row. During the group stage, the Americans looked stronger, but everyone knows that a final is a completely different game. Canada will surely learn from their previous encounter and adjust their tactics accordingly.
The key to victory for the U.S. will be discipline on defense and efficiency on the power play. They have already proven they can maintain a high tempo and impose their style of play, but they must remain highly focused on defense against stars like McDavid and MacKinnon.
On the other hand, Canada has more offensive depth and can change the course of the game with individual brilliance. If the Americans fail to control the center of the ice, they risk losing the initiative—something that could prove costly.
The final promises to be a thrilling spectacle with plenty of action. Team USA has a great chance to lift the trophy if they capitalize on their opportunities and neutralize Canada’s key players. However, Canada is always strong in decisive games and could use their experience to turn the tide.
My prediction: a tense battle, with the U.S. winning 3-2, and Matthew Tkachuk scoring the game-winning goal in the third period. Will this prediction come true? We’ll find out on February 20!
