Team USA pulled off a narrow victory in the round robin game. Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin broke a 1-1 tie midway through the second period, after which the American defensemen put on a clinic in blocking traffic in the slot. An empty-net goal sealed the deal for the stars and stripes with a 3-1 final score.

Both teams are trying to skate back the geopolitical tension that has infiltrated the tournament as they look ahead to Thursday night’s championship rematch in Boston.