USA, Canada hockey stars get into numerous fights in opening seconds of 4 Nations rivalry after anthem boos

In a thrilling and intense matchup between the USA and Canada in the 4 Nations Face Off game, three fights erupted within the first nine seconds of the game, setting the tone for a highly competitive and physical game.

The action began right at the opening puck drop, as USA’s Matthew Tkachuk and Brandon Hagel wasted no time in engaging in a spirited bout. Not long after, Matthew’s brother, Brady Tkachuk, squared off against Sam Bennett, adding another layer of intensity to the already heated matchup. The fast-paced start to the game had fans on the edge of their seats, as the players left it all on the ice in the early stages of the game.

But the drama didn’t end there. Just moments later, following a rush into the Canada zone, a scrum broke out involving multiple players from both teams. J.T. Miller and Colton Parayko found themselves in their own altercation, adding to the chaos on the ice. The physicality of the game led to crowded penalty boxes, as both teams tried to gain an edge in the heated contest.

The game, held in Montreal, was already charged with tension, as evidenced by the loud boos during the playing of the “Star-Spangled Banner.” Despite efforts to encourage respect for both national anthems, emotions ran high in the arena as the two teams battled for supremacy on the ice.

NHL executive Bill Daly labeled the situation as unfortunate, expressing hope that the heated exchanges would come to an end. The matchup marked the first time since 2016 that the USA and Canada faced off in a best-on-best format, with the World Cup of Hockey set to return in 2028 after a lengthy hiatus.

Both teams entered the game with momentum, having won their opening matchups in the tournament. Canada struck first with a goal from superstar Connor McDavid, only to be answered by a goal from Jake Guentzel to even the score. The back-and-forth action kept fans on the edge of their seats, as the two teams battled for supremacy on the ice.

With a spot in the one-game final on the line, the pressure was on for both teams to secure a victory. The Americans had the opportunity to punch their ticket to the final with a win, setting up a potential rematch against Canada in the championship game.

As the game unfolded, the intensity and drama only continued to escalate, promising an exciting and action-packed contest between two of the top teams in international hockey. Fans eagerly awaited the outcome of the game, eager to see which team would emerge victorious in the hard-fought battle on the ice.