GOTHENBURG, Sweden — Chaska native Jimmy Snuggerud scored on a one-timer in the second period to ignite a three-goal run that lifted the United States to a 3-2 win over Finland on Thursday to earn a spot in the world junior hockey championship.
The U.S. will play tournament host Sweden in Friday's title tilt after the home team defeated the Czech Republic 5-2 earlier in the day.
Cutter Gauthier delivered the game winner for the Americans when he scored on a shot from the right faceoff circle with less than four minutes to play in the third period. The goal came on the power play after Finland's Kasper Kulonummi was called for hooking.
“I’m proud of our guys,” U.S. coach David Carle said. “Even though we were down, I didn’t mind our first period and there was no panic in the room. Our special teams and goaltending were excellent, and we’re excited to have the chance to play for a gold medal."
It was the third straight goal for the Americans, who fell behind 2-0 in the first period.
Snuggerud, a standout with the University of Minnesota, got the U.S. on the board in the second period when he found the back of the net on a one-time from the top of the left faceoff circle. Seamus Casey set up the goal with a cross-ice pass, and Snuggerud did the rest.
Will Smith delivered the equalizer four minutes later to give new life to the Americans going into the third period.
After surrendering two goals in the first period, U.S. goalie Trey Augustine held Finland scoreless over the final two periods.
The U.S. will now try for its sixth gold medal and first since 2021. The Swedes have won two gold medals with its last one coming in 2012. Friday's championship game is scheduled to start at 12:30 p.m. CT.
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