In a familiar scenario from a year ago, Jack Ivankovic witnessed a similar storyline during Saturday’s world junior hockey championship. The goaltender relied on his University of Michigan teammate, Michael Hage, who has been a consistent performer for the NCAA’s top-ranked team this season.
Hage, a first-round pick of the Montreal Canadiens in 2024, proved his worth by scoring the game-winning goal in overtime to secure a 2-1 victory for Canada over Latvia. The crucial goal came on a power play just 44 seconds into the extra period, with Gavin McKenna providing the assist.
The Canadian team, led by Hage and supported by Ivankovic’s 26 saves, managed to overcome a late scare after Latvia’s Roberts Naudins was penalized for delay of game in the third period. Cole Reschny also contributed with a power-play goal for Canada, while Rudolfs Berzkalns scored for Latvia, with Nils Maurins making 36 saves.
Reflecting on the match, Canadian head coach Dale Hunter acknowledged the defensive strategy employed by Latvia. Canada avenged a previous upset by Latvia from a year ago, as they maintained composure and secured the win this time around. The Canadian team faces Denmark next before concluding Group B play against Finland on New Year’s Eve.
The game saw some intense moments, including a power-play goal by Reschny following a major penalty to Latvia’s Martins Klaucans. Despite late drama that led to an equalizer by Latvia, Hage’s heroics in overtime sealed the victory for Canada.
In a post-game apology, Canadian captain Porter Martone expressed regret for his unsportsmanlike conduct in the previous match. Additionally, Hockey Canada issued an apology for the team’s failure to participate in the post-game handshake line after the match against Czech Republic.