ESPOO, Finland – Gavin McKenna put Canada on his back to win its fifth men's under-18 hockey world championship.

McKenna scored three times, capping his hat trick with an empty-net goal, and added an assist as Canada beat the United States 6-4 on Sunday in the international tournament final. McKenna, from Whitehorse, Yukon, paid tribute to his teammates.

“I couldn't have done it without them, there were so many guys who stepped up when we needed it and it all paid off in the end,” said McKenna, a 16-year-old forward for the Medicine Hat Tigers. “There was never any doubt in our room. We have built incredible friendships that we will have for a lifetime.

Cole Beaudoin and Tij Iginla also scored in the third period as Canada overcame an early 3-1 deficit with four goals in the final period. Ryder Ritchie added a goal in the second period.

Goaltender Carter George made 31 saves to earn the victory in net.

Cole Hutson had a goal and two assists for the United States. Christian Humphreys, Cole Eiserman and Brodie Ziemer also scored.

Nicholas Kempf stopped 19 of 24 shots in goal for the Americans.

The American accumulated 31 penalty minutes while the Canadians only took eight.

“The USA played very well, but with the penalties – the power play is something we have practiced throughout the tournament, it proved important today and it was key to our victory said McKenna.

Earlier Sunday, Love Harenstam stopped all 36 shots he faced as Sweden blanked Slovakia 4-0 to win the bronze medal.

Lucas Pettersson scored 9:16 into the third period to break a scoreless tie for Sweden.

Melvin Fernstrom, Alfons Freij and Victor Eklund completed the Swedes' attack.

Alan Lendak stopped 25 shots on goal for Slovakia.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 5, 2024.