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Matthew Tkachuk Gives Emotional 8-Word Message About Canada Ahead of 4 Nations Clash

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Sean Treppedi | Last updated Feb 14, 2025 4:10 PM ET

There is no love lost between the United States and Canada when it comes to international hockey settings.

It's been nearly nine years since there was a best-on-best format between the two countries; that was the 2016 World Cup of Hockey. Canada won the tournament after splitting the two games it played the U.S.

United States alternate captain Matthew Tkachuk was not yet representing his country. In fact, he wasn't on the North American team that featured the best American and Canadian players of age 23 and under.

Tkachuk was about to begin his rookie season for the Calgary Flames, but nine months before that, he was skating for the United States in the World Junior Championships.

On Dec. 31, 2015, Tkachuk and the Americans fell to Canada 4-1. The United States subsequently earned a bronze medal and Canada, who featured 4 Nations team members such as Brayden Point, Mitch Marner, and Travis Konecny, didn't place in that tournament.

But Tkachuk hasn't forgotten.

Following Thursday's 6-1 demolition of Finland, Tkachuk, who potted two goals and an assist, had a powerful commentary.

"I've thought about this game for nine years," he said to ESPN.

Matthew Tkachuk has had Saturday’s game vs. Canada circled for NINE YEARS on the calendar

(via @Sportsnet) pic.twitter.com/XvTkbhEfvB
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) February 14, 2025

Tkachuk's sandpaper-like style of hockey has proved a polarizing effect on the NHL. Since he joined the Florida Panthers for the 2022-23 season, he has helped guide the Cats to back-to-back Stanley Cup Final appearances and one title.

Tkachuk's 1.2 points per game in 211 tilts for Florida has bought him elite status amongst the NHL.

As of Thursday's win, he reunited with his younger brother, Ottawa Senator Brady, who also scored two goals, on the top line with Vegas Golden Knights centerman Jack Eichel.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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