Following a previous defeat against the United States, Canada returned to the ice with a vengeance, securing a 5-3 victory over Finland in the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off tournament on Monday. With the USA already guaranteed a spot in the championship game thanks to their six points, the clash between Canada and Finland became crucial for both teams, each holding two points from a 1-1 record.

Canadian forward Mark Stone celebrates a goal during the match against Finland at TD Garden. (Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images)

A win was essential for Canada to set up a rematch against the USA in the championship game. The Canadian stars rose to the occasion, delivering a dominant performance. Nathan MacKinnon and Connor McDavid spearheaded the offensive charge, each netting two goals. Brayden Point also contributed to the scoring spree, helping Canada establish a commanding 3-0 lead in the first period. Sidney Crosby added an empty-net goal in the final moments to solidify the win.

McDavid opened the scoring for Canada, replicating his feat from the previous game against the U.S. His unassisted goal showcased his individual brilliance, as he skillfully maneuvered past the Finnish defense before unleashing a precise wrist shot past goaltender Juuse Saros. MacKinnon's second goal of the night, and third of the tournament, extended Canada's lead to 4-0, prompting Finland to replace Saros with Kevin Lankinen early in the second period.

Team Canada celebrates a goal by Nathan MacKinnon during the game against Finland at TD Garden. (Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images)

Finland mounted a late comeback in the third period, with Esa Lindell finally putting them on the scoreboard with a goal. However, with only 6:41 remaining, it seemed like a case of too little, too late. Despite the seemingly insurmountable lead, Canada faced a tense final few minutes as Mikael Granlund scored two quick goals for Finland during a power play with an empty net, narrowing the gap to 4-3.

Connor McDavid celebrates his goal with teammates at TD Garden. (Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images)

Just moments after Granlund's second goal, Sidney Crosby sealed the victory for Canada with an empty-net goal, ensuring a rematch against the USA in the championship game.