Team Canada star Nathan MacKinnon is feeling confident in his side ahead of a rematch against Team USA in the 4 Nations Face-Off Final on Thursday.
"The last thing we wanted to do was go home," MacKinnon told reporters following Canada's 5-3 win over Finland on Monday. "We'd love to play (USA) again. We feel like we can beat those guys. We plan on playing a little better Thursday."
Canada fell 3-1 to the United States in an electric matchup Saturday that featured three fights in the opening nine seconds.
MacKinnon scored twice in Canada's victory Monday and is tied for the tournament lead with three goals.
"It's gonna be intense," Canada winger Brad Marchand said. "They showed what type of game they can play. They don't give up much. They're gonna be ready to compete hard on Thursday. We're the same. We're really excited about it, to have another crack at these guys."
He added: "There's no bigger rivalry in hockey than Canada-U.S. It's the matchup that everyone wanted."
Canada head coach Jon Cooper also remains confident in his team despite losing the last meeting with the Americans.
"Everybody in (our) room thinks we have a really good chance to win," Cooper responded when asked about being the underdog in the final.
The U.S. managed to beat Canada on the road in Montreal on Saturday. This time, the game will be played at TD Garden in Boston.
"The city of Boston will be treated to something special Thursday night," Cooper said.
Canada has won the last three best-on-best international hockey tournaments dating back to the 2016 World Cup, 2014 Olympics, and 2010 Olympics. USA's last best-on-best triumph came at the 1996 World Cup.
