A video capturing Team USA conceding an early lead to Team Canada’s hockey team sparked strong reactions both in the arena and online.

Canadian center Nathan MacKinnon scored just 4:48 into the Four Nations Face-Off, firing a wrist shot through traffic past U.S. goaltender Connor Hellebuyck. The goal gave Canada an early lead and shifted the momentum.

Despite winning the Hart Trophy last season, MacKinnon remains somewhat underappreciated beyond core hockey circles—a reputation he seemed determined to challenge in this high-stakes match.

The U.S. didn’t stay down for long. Winger Brady Tkachuk tied the game at 9:01 p.m. ET, finishing a sharp pass from Auston Matthews right in the slot. The goal reignited the crowd, with chants of “USA, USA” echoing through the arena as Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Free Bird” blasted over the speakers.

The energy only grew as classic rock anthems like Van Halen’s “Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love” and “Quiet Riot” kept fans on their feet. Adding to the night’s quirky moments, a lucky fan won 10 pounds of lobster during a break.

Social media was quick to react to the game’s early twists. “Life, liberty and the U.S. underperforming in a gold medal style game smh[sic],” one fan posted, capturing the frustration of American supporters.

One user criticized Tkachuk, “BBBBBBBRRRRRAAAADDDYYYYY!!!!! Brrrrraaaaadddddyyyyyyyy!!!!!! It’s ALL YOUR FAULT [sic].” Canadian fans responded with pride and humor, with one writing, “Lmao. A man jinxed USA. KARMA. LOL. Let’s go Canada [sic].”

Someone else focused on the gameplay itself, “A really great shot. Nothing you could do there defensively. Helle couldn’t even see the puck with all the traffic.”

The game’s intensity and the strong reactions highlighted the enduring rivalry between the two nations.