Jimmy Snageld, a Chaska native and U of M standout, scored in the second period to spark the comeback.
GOTHENBURG, Sweden — Chaska native Jimmy Snageld scored three points with a one-time goal in the second period and the United States clinched a spot in the World Junior Hockey Championship with a 3-2 win over Finland on Thursday. . .
The United States will play host Sweden for the title Friday after the home team defeated the Czech Republic 5-2 earlier in the day.
With less than four minutes left in the third period, Cutter Gauthier scored the winning goal for the Americans from the right faceoff circle. The goal came on the power play after Finland’s Kasper Kronunmi was called for hooking.
“I’m proud of our players,” U.S. coach David Karl said. “Despite being depressed, I didn’t let my menstruation bother me and the room didn’t panic. Our special teams and goaltending were great, so we played for the gold. I’m excited to have the opportunity to do so.”
It was the third consecutive goal for the USA, who trailed 2-0 in the first period.
Snageld, a standout at the University of Minnesota, put the Americans in the lead in the second period with a one-timer from the top of the left faceoff circle that found the back of the net. Seamus Casey set up the goal with a cross-ice pass, and Snagerd did the rest.
Will Smith scored the tying goal four minutes later, giving the Americans some new life entering the third period.
After giving up two goals in the first period, U.S. goaltender Trey Augustin held Finland scoreless in the final two periods.
The United States will now aim for its sixth gold medal and first since 2021. Sweden has won two gold medals, the last one in 2012. Friday’s championship game is scheduled to begin at 12:30 p.m. Central Time.
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