Team Europe Played Admirably Against Canada to Open World Cup Final
Don’t let the critics, score, or fans fool you. Team Europe had an amazing game against Team Canada in Game 1 of the World Cup of Hockey Finals.
After having proved myself, and every other critic in the world wrong, Team Europe is in the finals of the World Cup of Hockey. Let me ask you; did you think it would ever happen?
We’re witnessing history, and I am definitely putting my money on Team Europe, despite their 3-1 loss to Canada last night. It’s because they made Canada actually look bad. Throughout this entire tournament, Canada has dominated. They looked solid and ready to play.
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They looked the opposite last night. And while you can say that if Team Europe can’t beat Team Canada at their worst they won’t win against their best, I think you’re wrong.
Team Europe dominated a game that was all about goaltending and defense. As soon as the game started Team Europe got off shot after shot to make Carey Price know what was coming his way. Team Europe out shot, out possessed, and overall took Canada’s wallet and hid it from them for the first period.
Team Europe reminds me a lot of a certain 1980s hockey team. You know, the one that defeated the Russians on mere team play and chemistry? Their team play is exquisite. And they have just a few things to work on if they’re going to beat Canada.
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Their power play leaves a lot to be desired. Brad Marchand caught them by surprise when he came out of the penalty box to score Canada’s first goal to set the tone against Europe.
One loss in, Team Europe knows what to expect the next time they play. And while I hate to create an excuse for the Europeans, the loss of Marian Gaborik is a huge loss to their offense. He was a major catalyst in the rounds leading up to this moment.
But that doesn’t mean they can’t power through and win. Team Europe has surprised us so far. Why shouldn’t they be able to win it all?
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