The Tkachuk brothers delivered a dazzling performance as the United States powered past Finland 6-1 in their opening match at the 4 Nations Face-Off on Thursday night.
Matthew Tkachuk scored twice and registered an assist, while his younger brother Brady also netted two goals in a commanding victory for Team USA. The highly anticipated tournament, featuring four of the world’s top hockey nations, kicked off with the Americans making an emphatic statement.
Sibling Success on the International Stage
Brady, captain of the Ottawa Senators, could hardly contain his excitement about playing alongside his older brother on the international stage.
“I don’t think it’s hit me yet,” Brady said postgame. “This has been the best experience of my hockey life. It’s been amazing.”
The brothers, known for their blend of skill and physicality, played a pivotal role in the third period after U.S. head coach Mike Sullivan adjusted the lines. He paired them with star center Jack Eichel, and the trio erupted for six points in the final 20 minutes.
“Not only are they great players, but they’re great teammates,” Sullivan said. “It’s special to see them play together. I think it gives them an extra spark.”
U.S. Rallies After Slow Start
Finland took an early lead when Henri Jokiharju’s shot fooled goaltender Connor Hellebuyck at 7:31 of the first period. However, Brady Tkachuk responded three minutes later, banking a shot in off Finnish netminder Juuse Saros.
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The Americans took control late in the second period when Matt Boldy tipped in a point shot from Brock Faber, giving the U.S. a 2-1 lead heading into the final frame.
Then, the floodgates opened.
Matthew Tkachuk extended the lead to 3-1 just 15 seconds into the third period on a power play. Eleven seconds later, Jake Guentzel fired a shot past Saros, stunning the Finnish defense. Brady followed with his second goal at the three-minute mark before Matthew capped the scoring with another power-play tally at 11:33.
The Tkachuks combined for five points, while Eichel and Zach Werenski each contributed multiple assists.
“These guys bring something different,” U.S. forward J.T. Miller said of the brothers. “They thrive in moments like these.”
Finland Left Searching for Answers
For Finland, the night was filled with frustration. After a competitive first two periods, their defensive breakdowns in the third proved costly.
“We either win or we learn,” Finnish captain Aleksander Barkov said. “Tonight, we learned a lot.”
The loss puts Finland at the bottom of the standings, while the U.S. leads the tournament with three points. Canada, which edged Sweden 4-3 in overtime on Wednesday, sits in second place with two points.
The tournament continues Saturday, with Sweden facing Finland in the afternoon before the United States and Canada renew their historic rivalry in primetime.
Controversy Over National Anthem Boos
The game wasn’t without controversy, as some fans at the Bell Centre booed the U.S. national anthem before puck drop. The crowd was urged to show respect, but the jeers continued—a response to recent trade tensions between Canada and the United States.
Matthew Tkachuk kept his response brief.
“I didn’t like it. That’s all I got,” he said.
Head coach Sullivan, however, took a more measured approach.
“These guys are here to play hockey,” he said. “They’re also proud Americans, and it’s a privilege to represent your country.”
Looking Ahead
The 4 Nations Face-Off is the closest men’s hockey has come to a best-on-best tournament since the 2016 World Cup. With the NHL set to return to the Olympics in 2026, this event serves as a preview of what’s to come.
The U.S. now turns its attention to Canada, a matchup that promises intensity and high stakes.
“There’s no complacency,” Brady Tkachuk said. “We just want to keep making more memories.”
