World Cup 2016: Canada eliminates USA behind 2 goals from Matt Duchene

Team USA had to win to even have a chance to advance past the group stage of the 2016 World Cup of Hockey. They had the formula, having split a pair of exhibition games with Canada just over a week ago. USA got off to a fast start, with a Ryan McDonagh goal early in the 1st period giving the Americans a 1-0 lead. Canada would bounce back quickly, however, and sloppy play and missed chances would be the story of the rest of the night for Team USA.

Avalanche center Matt Duchene scored a gritty rebound goal six minutes into the first period to tie the game. Corey Perry would follow that up just 14 seconds later with a goal of his own. US coach John Tortorella challenged on the grounds that Perry directed the puck into the net with his hand. The goal stood up after a review, and the Canadians were off to the races. Later in the period, Duchene found himself alone in the left circle. Some slick stick handling gave Duchene an open five hole to shoot at, and he doesn't miss those. He finished the 1st period with one of the stranger stat lines you'll ever see - 2 shots, 2 goals, 2:48 TOI.

The second period featured some exciting back and forth play, but the only goal came when John Tavares absolutely undressed the defense with an incredible move. Patrice Bergeron crashed the net for the rebound, and the puck went in off the skate of an American defenseman. The Americans had several chances, but they elected to pass instead of shoot every time. Solid defensive play from the Canadians shut them down every time.

The 3rd period featured more missed chances from the US. At one point, they beat Carey Price cleanly four times and hit the post every time. With six minutes left, Joe Thornton kept up that beloved San Jose Sharks tradition of scoring into his own net in a big game. The goal was credited to TJ Oshie, but that would be all for the red, white, and blue. Canada blocked shots and cleared rebounds all night, and it earned them the victory. With the loss, Team USA is officially eliminated from tournament play. They will play Czech Republic on Thursday night in an exciting matchup of eliminated teams before the players and coaches go home and get ready for training camp. Congrats to Canada for moving on!

Goalscorers

USA: Ryan McDonagh, TJ Oshie

Canada: Matt Duchene (x2), Patrice Bergeron, Corey Perry

Goaltenders

USA: Jonathan Quick (30 saves)

Canada: Carey Price (34 saves)

Avs Spotlight

USA: Erik Johnson (0 goals, 0 assists, -2, 2 PIM, 3 SOG)

Canada: Matt Duchene (2 goals, 0 assists, +2, 5 SOG)

Up Next

USA vs. Czech Republic, 6 PM MST, Thursday (ESPN2)

Canada vs. Europe, 6 PM MST, Wednesday (ESPN2)