Breaking: U.S. Men’s Ice Hockey Team Stuns Host Denmark 5-0 in World Championship Opener; Joey Daccord Records Shutout in Tournament Debut
U.S. ROUTS DENMARK, SETS SIGHTS ON FIRST ICE HOCKEY WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP GOLD
Historic Shutout by Daccord Highlights dominate American Performance
COPENHAGEN, xxx — The U.S. men’s hockey team started their 2025 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship journey on a high note, crushing host Denmark 5-0 in an electrifying opening game at Jyske Bank Boxen. Joey Daccord’s impressive 26-save shutout paved the way for a stunning performance by a hungry American squad eager to end a 92-year gold medal drought.
Daccord: Humble Hero & Stellar Goaltending
After a career-high 57 games with the Seattle Kraken this season, goaltender Joey Daccord stole the show with his tournament debut shutout. "I always say a shutout is a team result, and the guys played awesome tonight," Daccord praised his teammates while crediting his own performance. "I thought we executed our game plan pretty well. For our first time playing a full game together, it was pretty impressive."
Joey Daccord earned a 26-save shutout in his tournament debut.
Young NHLers Shine in American Offensive Onslaught
The American attack was relentless, outshooting Denmark 48-26 and controlling the game with a 21-8 edge in the second period. Matt Beniers (2 goals) and fellow young NHLers Cutter Gauthier, Logan Cooley, and Mason Lohrei (1 goal each) led the scoring charge.
"[Beniers] is a great player. I’ve been fortunate enough to skate with him a little bit in the summers and get to know him. He’s a super-great teammate, loves to compete," Gauthier added, highlighting their growing camaraderie.
Danish RESILIENCE AND REGRETS
Despite the lop-sided score, Danish defender Phillip Bruggisser found positives in their initial performance. "The first period was pretty decent. Still, too many mistakes on our side. If we really just bear down and play smart on those plays, I think we have a good shot against any team."
A Look Ahead: U.S. Medal Drought & Danish Dreams
With no NHL players available at the start of this tournament, Denmark fell short in their quest to reach the quarter-finals despite a strong home crowd. However, they dreams of replicating their 2010 and 2016 quarter-final berths and seeking revenge against the U.S., whom they’ve beaten just twice in ten attempts.
Did You Know?
- The U.S. has never played in an IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship final since the playoff system was introduced in 1992.
- Denmark’s lastIce Hockey World Championship game took place in Herning on 15 May 2018, where they fell 1-0 to Latvia.
Pro Tips for Enjoying the Event
- Dive into the IIHF.tv for live action and highlights throughout the tournament.
- Follow @USAHockey and @IIHFHockey on Twitter for behind-the-scenes content and updates.
FAQs
- Q: When was the last time the U.S. men’s hockey team won a World Championship? A: The U.S. won the IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship in 1933.
- Q: How often has Denmark beaten the U.S. at the World Championships? A: Denmark has beaten the U.S. just twice in 10 attempts: in 2003 and 2010.
What’s Next for the Americans & Danes?
The U.S. will face off against Hungary in the next game, while Denmark battles 2024 silver medalist Switzerland. Stay tuned for more updates on 247sports.new!
Sound Off: Share Your Thoughts
Tell us your thoughts on this historic shutout and how the U.S. can maintain this momentum through the tournament. The comments section is buzzing – join the conversation below!