U18s Win Five Nations Title, Overtime Victory Over Switzerland 3-2
Team USA’s U18 squad clinched the Five Nations Title after a dramatic overtime victory against Switzerland, winning 3-2. This thrilling match showcased remarkable skill and determination from both teams.
Match Overview: USA vs. Switzerland
The game commenced with Switzerland quickly equalizing shortly after the first period. They took the lead just 51 seconds into the second period. However, Team USA responded with a crucial power play goal late in the second period.
Key Players
- Dayne Beuker (Portland, Ore.) – Scored the equalizer for Team USA.
- Logan Stuart (Manhattan Beach, Calif.) – Assisted Beuker’s goal.
- Brady Knowling (Chicago, Ill.) – Saved multiple scoring opportunities for the U.S.
- Francisco – Scored the game-winning goal in overtime.
- Mikey Berchild (Minnetonka, Minn.) – Assisted in the winning play.
Decisive Moments
The turning point of the game came when Beuker scored at 9:46 in the second period. This goal equalized the score after Switzerland had taken the lead. The third period saw neither team score, leading to a tense 3-on-3 overtime.
During overtime, both teams created scoring chances. Brady Knowling’s defense played a pivotal role in keeping the game tied. The game-winning moment occurred at 1:20 into overtime, when Francisco netted his goal after a swift play initiated by Berchild.
Upcoming Schedule for Team USA
Team USA will face off against Team Finland tomorrow, February 8, with the puck dropping at 6:00 a.m. ET. Following this match, the U18 team will return to USA Hockey Arena on March 20 for their annual Military Appreciation Weekend. The puck drop for that game is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET.
Tickets for the game against the Waterloo Black Hawks can be purchased online at El-Balad or by contacting the box office at 734-453-8400.
