The long-standing rivalry between the United States and Canada in hockey has taken on a political dimension. The two nations will face off in Montreal for the 4 Nations Face-Off, their first best-on-best matchup since the 2016 World Cup of Hockey. Recent events, including the booing of the American national anthem by Canadian fans during a Team USA game against Finland, have highlighted the strained relations between the two countries.
Team USA forward Brady Tkachuk celebrates after scoring. (David Kirouac/Imagn Images)
NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly addressed the anthem booing, calling it an "unfortunate situation" and emphasizing the importance of respecting national anthems. The recent political climate, marked by trade disputes and tariffs imposed by the U.S., has contributed to the heightened tensions between the two countries. Instances of booing the American anthem have also occurred during NBA and NHL games in Canada.
Team USA stands for the national anthem before a game against Finland. (Vitor Munhoz/4NFO/World Cup of Hocky via Getty Images)
Daly stated that the NHL is monitoring the situation and expressed hope that the tournament can help bridge the divide between the two nations. A win for the U.S. in regulation would secure them a spot in the final. There's a possibility the two teams could meet again for the championship when the tournament moves to Boston.
Team USA celebrates a goal against Finland. (Andrea Cardin/4NFO/World Cup of Hockey via Getty Images)
The game is set for 8 p.m., and the historical context of the rivalry, including Canada's overtime victory against the U.S. in the 2010 Olympic gold medal game, adds another layer of intrigue to the upcoming match.
