1996 World Cup Of Hockey Game 3
The 1996 World Cup of Hockey was a thrilling tournament that showcased some of the best hockey players in the world. The tournament, which was sponsored by the NHL, was held in various locations across North America and featured eight teams from around the world. The final was held on September 14, 1996, between Team USA and Team Canada. Game 3 of the final was a defining moment for Team USA and is still remembered as one of the greatest moments in USA hockey history.
The Road To The Final
Team USA had a tough road to the final. They started in the preliminary round, where they competed in Group A against Russia, Germany, and Slovakia. Team USA finished second in their group, behind Russia, and advanced to the next round.
In the quarterfinals, Team USA played against Team Canada. In a stunning upset, Team USA won the game 5-3 and advanced to the semifinals. In the semifinals, Team USA faced the heavily favored Team Sweden. Despite being underdogs, Team USA won the game 3-2 and advanced to the final.
The Game
Game 3 of the final was held at the Montreal Forum in Montreal, Canada. The series was tied at one game apiece, and both teams knew that the winner of this game would be one step closer to winning the tournament.
Team USA got off to a great start when Brett Hull scored a power-play goal just 5 minutes into the game. Team Canada answered back with a goal from Mats Sundin just 2 minutes later. The first period ended with the score tied 1-1.
In the second period, Team Canada took the lead when Paul Coffey scored a power-play goal. Team USA answered back with a goal from Pat LaFontaine, tying the game at 2-2. The second period ended with the score tied.
The third period was a tense and thrilling affair. With just 3 minutes left in the game, Tony Amonte scored a goal to give Team USA the lead. Team Canada pulled their goalie in an attempt to tie the game, but Team USA's Mike Richter made several key saves to preserve the lead. The game ended with a final score of 3-2 in favor of Team USA.
The Aftermath
Team USA's victory in Game 3 was a defining moment for USA hockey. It was the first time that the United States had won a major international hockey tournament since the "Miracle on Ice" at the 1980 Winter Olympics. The victory was also a testament to the skill and determination of the team, which had been seen as underdogs throughout the tournament.
The victory was celebrated across the United States, and the players became overnight celebrities. Many of the players went on to successful NHL careers, and several of them were inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Conclusion
The 1996 World Cup of Hockey was a memorable tournament that saw Team USA overcome the odds to win the final. Game 3 of the final was a defining moment for Team USA and is still remembered as one of the greatest moments in USA hockey history. The victory was a testament to the skill and determination of the team, and it was celebrated across the United States.
