Gangwon 2024: Canada dominate hosts Republic of Korea in Youth Olympic men's ice hockey competition
Team Canada took a convincing 8-0 victory over the host nation in their first game of the men's ice hockey 6-team competition at the Winter Youth Olympic Games.
Ice Hockey
Canada men's ice hockey team got a perfect start in their quest for 6-team gold at the Winter Youth Olympic Games, Gangwon 2024 on Saturday (27 January).
Team Canada were in control from start to finish against the Republic of Korea, winning 8-0.
The Canadian favourites took an early lead through Mathis Preston. They were 3-0 up at the end of the first period. They added two more goals in the second, and three in the final period to seal a comprehensive win.
The home fans did what they could to cheer on the Korean players, but the support from the busy stands couldn't prevent their team slipping to an opening Group B defeat.
Liam Ruck was the top scorer of the game with three.
"We got a great team, a lot of good offense, and we played really well today. It was good to get that first win," Ruck told Olympics.com.
"The atmosphere was awesome today. We played our game and that's all we need to do the rest of the way. A really good start for us, and I'm just looking forward to the next one," captain Daxon Rudolph said.
Find out more about captain Rudolph in the latest Olympics Podcast.
Following the win, Canada top Group B that also includes Finland, who they will face next on Monday 29 January.
The top two teams from each group advance to the semi-finals.