USA vs Sweden: Team USA faced a 2-1 defeat vs. Sweden in a 4 Nations Face-Off tournament at Boston’s TD Garden recently. Although this match had no bearing on the tournament standings, it mattered because of the growing injury woes facing the American team.
Early Setbacks for Team USA
Before the game team USA’s lineup was already an inconvenience. Star players including forward Matthew Tkachuk (lower body) defenseman Charlie McAvoy (upper body) and captain Auston Matthews (upper body soreness) were out. With these production absences, the team had to switch to only fielding 11 forwards against a gritty squad from Sweden.
Game Highlights: USA vs Sweden
Despite the struggles, Team USA displayed toughness. Rangers forward Chris Kreider, playing in his tournament debut, gave a jolt to the home crowd when he scored with just 35 seconds gone in his first shift, giving the United States a 1-0 lead. Kreider’s goal was a testament to Kreider’s readiness and to the chemistry with linemates Jack Eichel and Brady Tkachuk.
But Sweden fought back with resolve. Gustav Nyquist tied it later in the first, taking advantage of a defensive breakdown. The match was even until late in regulation, when Jesper Bratt scored the eventual winner with 56 seconds left, sending Sweden to a 2-1 victory.
Injury Woes Deepen: USA vs Sweden
The physicality of the match only took a further toll on Team USA. Brady Tkachuk was injured when he crashed into a goalpost in the first period. He returned briefly, but was ruled out for the rest of the game. Vincent Trocheck also appeared to hurt his right hand but played on with apparent pain.
Answering questions about the injury list, head coach Mike Sullivan said he hoped some key players would be back before the final against Canada. He said the team hadn’t begun reaching out to reserve players, which was a good sign the injured ones were expected back soon.
Looking Ahead
The loss, though, does not prevent Team USA’s sights from turning towards the tournament final against well-established foes, Canada. Those in the coaching staff and players indeed still hope for the injured to recover in time so the team would be battle-ready in the fight for the title.
The 4 Nations Face-Off has proved that international hockey can be an intuitive and fierce game. As the time approaches to discover the outcome, fans and analysts both eagerly wait to see how the tournament will end.
