Canada secured their fifth gold medal at the under-18 men’s world hockey championship with a 6-4 win 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 fight, with Cole Hutson, Christian Humphreys, Cole Eiserman, and Brodie Ziemer each finding the back of the net. 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 a thrilling conclusion to the tournament, with Canada emerging victorious and Sweden securing bronze.