Juniorkronorna Triumph Over Canada 4-2 in Pre-World Junior Championship Rematch

The Swedish junior ice hockey team, Juniorkronorna, secured a compelling 4-2 victory against Canada in a key preparatory match ahead of the 2025 World Junior Championship, which starts on December 26. This win came after a previous loss to Canada just days earlier, marking an important comeback for the Swedish side.

Sweden opened the scoring late in the first period through Victor Eklund, but Canada quickly responded in the second period, leveling the score and then taking a 2-1 lead with goals from Tij Iginla—son of NHL legend Jarome Iginla—and Braeden Cootes. However, a pivotal moment occurred early on when Canada's promising 18-year-old Gavin McKenna mistakenly scored an own goal under pressure during a delayed penalty, giving Sweden an early advantage. McKenna expressed his frustration post-match, saying, "I must do better. It’s tough when it happens, especially on such a big stage. But in the end, it’s hockey we play, and things happen."

Sweden mounted an impressive comeback in the third period. Jack Berglund was instrumental, first tying the game shorthanded and later securing the empty-net goal that sealed the victory. Ivar Stenberg also contributed the go-ahead goal, putting Sweden ahead 3-2. Goalkeeper Love Härenstam delivered a strong performance, stopping 23 out of 25 shots.

This match served as essential preparation for Juniorkronorna ahead of the World Junior Championship kickoff, where Sweden's opening game will be against Slovakia. Their final warm-up match is scheduled against Switzerland on Christmas Eve. The victory not only boosts the team's morale but demonstrates their resilience and ability to adapt under pressure, setting positive momentum going into the tournament.