Canada won their fifth gold medal at the under-18 men’s world hockey championship with a 6-4 victory over the United States on Sunday. Gavin McKenna led the way with a hat trick and an assist, while Cole Beaudoin, Tij Iginla, and Ryder Ritchie also scored to overcome an early deficit. Goalie Carter George made 31 saves to secure the victory.
The United States put up a strong fight, with Cole Hutson, Christian Humphreys, Cole Eiserman, and Brodie Ziemer each scoring to keep things close. Nicholas Kempf made 19 saves in net for the Americans.
In the bronze medal game, Sweden blanked Slovakia 4-0 with Love Harenstam stopping all 36 shots he faced. Lucas Pettersson scored the game-winning goal in the third period, while Melvin Fernstrom, Alfons Freij, and Victor Eklund added to the Swedes’ lead. Alan Lendak made 25 saves for Slovakia.
Overall, it was an exciting conclusion to the tournament as Canada emerged victorious and Sweden secured bronze medals.
