OTTAWA — Team Canada kicked off the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship with enthusiasm and skill, decisively defeating Finland 4-0 on Thursday. With Gavin McKenna lighting up the scoreboard and Carter George shutting the door between the pipes, the Canadians left little doubt about their intent to reclaim glory on home soil.
The evening was packed with anticipation as fans gathered at the Canadian Tire Centre to witness the start of this annual hockey tradition, especially following Canada's disappointing fifth-place finish in the last tournament held in Sweden. Young star Gavin McKenna set the tone early, scoring his first goal just 51.4 seconds before the end of the first period after cleaning up his own rebound. Projected as the top pick for the upcoming 2026 NHL draft, the 17-year-old from Whitehorse has made his presence known.
Following McKenna's opener, Easton Cowan quickly doubled Canada’s lead at 5:22 of the second period. Cowan, who is another promising prospect for the Toronto Maple Leafs, intercepted a Finnish clear attempt and made no mistake, beating Finnish goaltender Petteri Rimpinen cleanly on the blocker side.
The Canadians continued to press with aggressive forechecking, dominating territorial play and compiling 38 shots on goal against Finland's 31. Throughout the game, George stood tall against Finland's advances, stopping all 31 shots faced and even shutting down important power play opportunities as he secured his shutout. Finland struggled to capitalize on their man advantage, failing to score on three power play chances.
Meanwhile, Luca Pinelli added to the score with 4:46 left to play, courtesy of brilliant setup work from Caden Price. Pinelli's goal provided Canada with a comfortable buffer and came as the team held Finland’s offensive efforts at bay. Matthew Schaefer capped off the performance with an empty-net goal, sealing the victory just 18 seconds from the final whistle.
The match was marked not just by the final score but also by the poise and composure exhibited by young Canadian players under pressure. Captain Brayden Yager, who was selected 14th overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins last year and recently traded to the Winnipeg Jets, led the charge with veteran confidence, embodying the team’s resolve to learn from past competitions.
“It’s great to start the tournament like this, especially at home,” Yager expressed after the match. “I think we have the team to do something really special this year.” The night served as not just another win but as affirmation of the tight-knit, competitive group Canadian officials hope to build upon.
Both teams were aware of the stakes heading to this first game, particularly after the previous year's disappointing outcomes. The under-20 tournament not only brings the best players on ice but also gives nations the opportunity to showcase their next generation of stars. Such events tend to be springboards for future professional careers, highlighting the intense rivalry between Canada and Finland, who met once more following memorable matchups over the years.
Fans were treated to vintage international hockey, with the game being electrified by McKenna’s early score and the palpable energy from the stands. The emotional investment of the audience was palpable, and many are hoping to see the same level of intensity as the tournament progresses. The organizers also noted the importance of getting off to a solid start, with hopes pinned on building momentum as they advance through group play.
Looking forward, Canada will face Latvia next, and with Friday’s match only around the corner, the team is eager to maintain their winning streak. For now, the early performances look promising as the Canadians prepare to continue their quest for yet another gold medal, eyeing their record-breaking 21st championship.
Fans might wager on whether this year’s squad can secure the gold after last year's setback, but for now, one thing is clear—Canada’s hockey pride burns bright, and they are making their intentions known right from the get-go at this year’s World Juniors.
