OTTAWA: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau took a swipe at Donald Trump after Canada’s thrilling 3-2 overtime victory over the USA.
“You can’t take our country – and you can’t take our game,” Trudeau posted on X after the 4 Nations Face Off final.
The championship match in Boston happened during growing tensions between Canada and the United States.
Concerns over a possible trade war and Trump’s remarks about making Canada the 51st state have raised concerns.
The intense hockey rivalry became more than just a game, as Canadians used it to express national pride.
National Anthem Protest
Recently, Canadian sports fans have been booing the US anthem in protest of rising political tensions.
During the final, however, American home fans were the ones booing as the Canadian anthem played.
Canadian singer Chantal Kreviazuk altered the lyrics of “O Canada” while performing before the game.
She sang “that only us command” instead of “in all of us command” as a subtle form of protest.
Kreviazuk later explained, saying, “We should express our outrage in the face of abuses of power.”
Trump’s Reaction
Donald Trump did not attend the final but called the US team to wish them luck before the game.
On Truth Social, he again suggested that Canada could become part of the United States.
“I hope Canada will someday, maybe soon, become our cherished and very important 51st State,” Trump posted.
His comments sparked backlash, with many Canadians viewing them as a threat to their nation’s sovereignty.
Canadian officials and fans strongly rejected the idea, emphasizing their national pride.
Game’s Importance
The Canada-USA hockey final was one of the most highly anticipated matchups in recent years.
It was the first time since the 2014 Winter Olympics that the top men’s teams from both nations faced off.
Both rosters included NHL stars, with Canada’s Connor McDavid and Mitch Marner leading their squad.
The US team was powered by stars like Auston Matthews and Jack Eichel, making for a fierce battle.
McDavid’s overtime goal secured Canada’s victory, igniting celebrations among Canadian fans.
Canadian Pride
For Canada, the win meant more than just a championship—it symbolized national strength and unity.
With Trump’s statements raising sovereignty concerns, the victory became a moment of national pride.
Both die-hard hockey fans and casual supporters saw the game as an important statement.
Canada’s deep-rooted hockey legacy was once again reinforced on the international stage.
As tensions between the two nations continue, Canada’s hockey triumph carries even greater significance.
