On Top in Minnesota: Canada's World Junior Cup Pyrrhic victories

It is more than a game; it is Canada’s national identity. Team Canada for the U20 IIHF World Junior Championship has navigated the treacherous waters of Group B emerging not just victorious, but superlative in every capacity of play. As of January 2nd, 2026, with a perfect 3-1-0-0 record in the preliminary round (three wins, one overtime win) — securing 11 of a possible 12 points — this squad has established itself as the standard bearer for grit and resolve. They now stand as the top seed, a pillar standing and embodying the hard work and sheer Canadian spirit running through their veins while on the ice.