The article reflects on the intense hockey rivalry between Canada and the United States, particularly during Olympic competitions where both countries have won gold since women's hockey was introduced in 1998. As Canadians prepare for the next game against the U.S., the emotional connection to these matchups is emphasized, illustrating how watching these games often becomes a communal experience for Canadians, even if it means sacrificing sleep for the sake of national pride.

It notes that the upcoming men's game against Finland is crucial for Canada, as winning could lead them to face the U.S. in the gold medal match. The piece reinforces the historical significance of these encounters, with close scores characterizing their matches, suggesting high stakes and viewer investment. This edge-of-the-seat rivalry is further fueled by underlying geopolitical tensions, making each game more than just a sport but a reflection of national identity.

Finally, the article serves as both a celebration and an anticipation of the ongoing rivalry, suggesting that these matchups, steeped in history, continue to captivate fans and symbolize broader themes of competition and camaraderie among nations. As Team Canada prepares to potentially meet Team USA in Olympic play, the stakes of this rivalry remain profoundly relevant to Canadian sports culture.