Canada stays perfect with dominant 5-1 win over Switzerland at Olympics
Canadians cruise past Swiss to clinch Group A
MILAN, Italy – Canada stayed perfect at the Milan Cortina Olympics with a convincing 5-1 victory over Switzerland in men’s hockey on Friday. Led by Connor McDavid and Nathan MacKinnon, who each tallied a goal and two assists, the Canadians made it two regulation wins in as many games and secured the top spot in Group A.
By the Numbers
- Final Score: Canada 5, Switzerland 1
- Record: Canada (2-0-0-0), Switzerland (1-0-1-0)
- Goals: Canada – Macklin Celebrini (1G, 1A), Sidney Crosby, Thomas Harley; Switzerland – Pius Suter
- Saves: Canada – Logan Thompson (24/25); Switzerland – Akira Schmid (34/39)
McDavid, MacKinnon shine
McDavid, the captain of the Edmonton Oilers, scored his first Olympic goal in the opening frame, while MacKinnon, a center for the Colorado Avalanche, helped set up another marker. The duo combined for six points, powering Canada’s offense alongside linemate Celebrini, who also scored.
The way Connor and Nate are playing, it’s just ridiculous. They’re taking over games and giving us a great chance to win.– Canadian head coach Jon Cooper
Canadian fans can now look forward to a Sunday showdown with France (0-0-2-0) in the team’s final preliminary round contest. After the French lost to the Czech Republic (1-0-1-0) earlier in the day, Canada will be looking to finish group play undefeated.
Swiss fans, goaltender keep it close
Though outmatched on the ice, Swiss fans created a lively atmosphere, booing and whistling the Canadian team during introductions. Schmid, the Swiss netminder, played a sensational game, stopping 34 of 39 shots and keeping his team in the game until Canada pulled away in the third period.
Looking Ahead
Canada will look to continue its momentum against France on Sunday, while the Swiss will face off against the Czech Republic in a critical matchup for both teams.
Did you know?
This is the first time NHL players have competed in the Olympics since 2014, following a 12-year absence.
Pro Tip
Keep an eye on the McDavid-MacKinnon-Celebrini line in Canada’s upcoming games. They’ve shown great chemistry and could be a difference-maker moving forward.
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