The 2026 Hlinka Gretzky Cup opened in Edmonton, Alberta, where Canada rolled past Switzerland 7‑3 in a high‑scoring affair. Camryn Warren of the North Bay Battalion and Ryerson Edgar of the Niagara IceDogs found the back of the net, while Cooper McAslan of the London Knights contributed an assist that set the tone for the tournament.
Opening Day Highlights
Across the ice, the United States edged Czechia 6‑4, with playmakers Nolan Snyder of the Kingston Frontenacs and Gerry DiCunzolo of the Peterborough Petes linking up for key helpers that kept the Americans in control.
Finland, after a slow start, rallied to defeat Germany 5‑2. Luca Santala of the London Knights added an assist, underscoring the Finnish team’s depth and resilience.
Sweden secured a 4‑3 overtime victory over Slovakia, with goaltender Vilmer Salen Forsberg of the Brantford Bulldogs making 35 saves to preserve the win and spark excitement among the crowd.
Looking ahead, Canada will meet Slovakia on Tuesday at 5:00 p.m. MST, while the United States faces Finland at 7:00 p.m. MST. Sweden’s next test comes against Switzerland at 3:00 p.m. MST, promising more competitive match‑ups as the round‑robin unfolds.
The event showcases a roster of OHL talent drawn from clubs such as the London Knights, Niagara IceDogs, North Bay Battalion, Guelph Storm, Flint Firebirds, Peterborough Petes, Kitchener Rangers and Brantford Bulldogs, highlighting the league’s role as a breeding ground for future stars.