U.S. Under-18 Men’s National Team Falls to Norway in Overtime in Pre-Tournament Game

Frisco, Texas – April 16, 2025

The U.S. Under-18 Men’s National Team faced a tough opponent in Norway during their pre-tournament opener, ultimately losing 4-3 in overtime. The game took place at the Comerica Center and served as a lead-up to the 2025 IIHF Under-18 Men’s World Championship.

Quick Start for Team USA

Team USA got off to a rapid start, scoring three goals within the first ten minutes of play. The scoring began almost immediately, with Richard Gallant from Concord, Massachusetts, netting the first goal just 19 seconds into the game. Following Gallant's early strike, Asher Barnett of Wilmette, Illinois, added to the score. Barnett received a pass from Blake Fiddler, who hails from Frisco, Texas, and successfully shot the puck into the net at the 16:38 mark.

Team USA’s third goal came from Mikey Berchild of Minnetonka, Minnesota, who capitalized on a setup from Jacob Kvasnicka from Plymouth, Minnesota, with 11:18 remaining in the first period. Despite a dominant beginning, Norway responded before the end of the first frame, scoring to make it 3-1. Norwegian Comeback

The second period saw Team USA maintaining their lead but struggling to add to their tally. Despite several scoring opportunities, including a near goal by Drew Schock IV of Green Bay, Wisconsin, the Americans were unable to find the back of the net. Norway turned the momentum in the final moments of the game. With just over a minute left, Norway pulled their goalie and scored with the extra attacker, narrowing the deficit to 3-2. Shortly after, they equalized with just 46 seconds remaining, sending the game into overtime.

Overtime Finish

In the overtime period, the game shifted to a three-on-three format, where both teams looked for the decisive goal. Norway capitalized on a two-on-one attack and scored the winning goal with 2:41 left in the extra period, securing a hard-fought victory.

Goaltending Performance

Patrick Quinlan from Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, began in net for Team USA, making five saves in the first period. Harrison Boettiger from Wheat Ridge, Colorado, took over for the second period, blocking eight shots, while Joey Slavick from Westland, Michigan, made eight saves in the third period and overtime.

Next Steps for Team USA

Team USA’s next pre-tournament game will take place on Monday, April 21, against Finland at the StarCenter Plano Arena in Texas. The faceoff is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. ET.

Both teams finished the game with no successful power plays, with Team USA outshooting Norway 33-25. The U.S. has a roster consisting of 14 forwards, eight defensemen, and three goaltenders as they prepare for their upcoming matches.

For more information about the tournament, including ticket purchases and schedules, fans can visit the official USA Hockey website.