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4 Nations Championship: Jake Sanderson scores to give USA 2-1 lead vs. Canada

IMG_0985by:Griffin McVeigh•02/20/25•

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Jake Sanderson
© Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images

TD Garden is the place to be on Thursday night as the 4-Nations Face-Off championship game between the United States and Canada takes place. One of the more anticipated hockey games in quite some time, a lot is on the line in Boston. And nearly halfway through the second period, the arena is rocking.

Canada took a 1-0 lead but the United States responded in big fashion. Defenseman Jake Sanderson scored to capture the USA’s first lead of the game, making it 2-1. Finally getting some possession inside the offensive zone, a well-worked goal from the Americans.

You can check out the full moment here.

Thursday night’s matchup did not exactly start with the same fireworks as we saw on Saturday. Three fights in nine seconds broke out during Round Robin play. The United States’ goal was to send a message to the Canadians, especially playing at the Bell Center in Montreal. Message received as the intensity level is at an all-time high.

A great hockey game is certainly unfolding in front of our eyes, though. Fans of the US have to be thrilled with a 2-1 to this point, mirroring what occurred in the previous matchup. They eventually went on to win 3-1 with an empty net goal.

In actuality, the result was just setting up the game everyone is currently watching. Plenty of time remains but for now, Sanderson is the man of the moment in Boston. Something he will never forget, especially if the United States goes on to win the game.

More on Jake Sanderson, inclusion in 4-Nations Face-Off

Heading into the tournament, Sanderson did not even know if he would be on the United States roster. Quinn Hughes was dealing with an injury but was attempting to return for the tournament. He did not have much luck, meaning Sanderson was going to not only be on the team but have a role.

After the United States advanced to the championship, head coach Mike Sullivan said Hughes was going to be joining the team. But if Hughes was going to play, there would have to be some kind of injury. Many on social media joked that Sanderson would be the guy to get the call.

Alas, Hughes never made it to Boston and fans are now incredibly grateful. Sanderson his first goal of the 4-Nations Face-off and puts his team out in front 2-1 in the event’s biggest game.