Czechia and the United States are headed to the U-17 World Challenge gold-medal game after semifinal wins ended Canada’s run of consecutive appearances in the final. Czechia edged Canada Red, 4-3, while the U.S. rallied past Canada White, 5-2. Matyas Čutta scored twice for Czechia, and U.S. goalie Mason Martin delivered a standout performance.

By the Numbers
  • Czechia beat Canada Red 4-3; Čutta scored 2 goals.
  • The U.S. defeated Canada White 5-2 after trailing 1-0.
  • Martin made 36 saves in the first 40 minutes.
  • The gold-medal game is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET; Canada’s teams meet for bronze at 3:30 p.m. ET.
Yes, But

Czechia has never won U-17 World Challenge gold, while the U.S. is chasing its seventh title. Canada’s semifinal exits are a sharp change from 2024 and 2025, when Canadian teams filled both spots in the final.

Bottom Line

The final pits Czechia’s timely scoring against a U.S. team that showed it can take over a game—and gives both countries a chance to make history.