Russia entered the game needing a victory to avoid elimination at the World Cup of Hockey 2016 and they had to do it against the tournament darlings in Team North America. A high scoring affair was anticipated and both teams delivered. North America controlled the game early, but a 4 goal 2nd period was just enough to give Russia the win.
First Period
Team North America started with solid puck possession and controlled the game for the first 5 minutes. After a failed power play opportunity, Mark Scheifele moved the puck up to Connor McDavid, who blew past Pavel Datsyuk on the side boards, and sent a backhand saucer pass to Auston Matthews to open the scoring.