Canada continued its powerful performance at the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship, securing a resounding 10-0 victory over Latvia on Wednesday. Forward Macklin Celebrini, a top prospect for the 2024 NHL Draft, was the standout player, contributing significantly with a goal and four assists, taking the lead in tournament scoring.
The win marks an impressive start for coach Alain Letang’s team, maintaining their undefeated status in Gothenburg and setting their sights on an unprecedented 21st World Junior gold medal. Canada’s goalie, Mathis Rousseau, played a pivotal role, achieving his first World Junior shutout and keeping the Latvian team at bay.
Canada’s offensive prowess was evident from the outset, with Conor Geekie opening the scoring on a power play. The momentum continued to build, with Geekie and Carson Rehkopf each adding two goals to the tally.
The Canadian team displayed remarkable cohesion and strategic execution, evident in the playmaking and scoring contributions from players like Brayden Yager and Owen Allard, the latter being the team’s only undrafted skater. Celebrini, reflecting on the team’s performance, highlighted the importance of collaborative play and the positive impact it has on the team’s direction.
In the third period, the Canadian team showcased their depth and versatility, with captain Fraser Minten, Matthew Wood, Geekie, Rehkopf, and Matthew Poitras all contributing to the scoring. Latvia, overwhelmed by Canada’s relentless attack, made a goaltender change and called a timeout, but the game had slipped far beyond their reach.
The Canadian fans added to the celebratory atmosphere, singing Bryan Adams’ “Summer of ’69” as the final moments of the game approached, highlighting a connection to the Vancouver-born rock singer and MVP Connor Bedard.
This victory over Latvia is Canada’s fourth in World Junior history, though not their most decisive. The team now prepares for a more challenging encounter with host nation Sweden. Latvia, facing a must-win situation against Finland, aims to avoid relegation and replicate their best-ever finish from 2022.
