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The anticipation surrounding Team Canada’s goal song for the World Juniors has been building since the puck dropped, and tonight, the secret was finally unveiled.
The electrifying moment came when 17-year-old hockey phenom Gavin McKenna scored Canada’s first goal of the tournament, unleashing the official goal anthem: “Live is Life” by Austrian rock band Opus.
The upbeat tune quickly filled the arena in Ottawa, setting the tone for what fans hope will be another golden run for Canada.
“I had to work my way up this lineup, being a young guy,” McKenna said during the game’s first intermission. “So, you know, every day is a battle for me. I’m kind of under the microscope, so I’ve got to make sure I’m doing all the right things and I think it’s been pretty good so far, but I just got to keep going.”
Thoughts on the goal song? 🇨🇦🎶
Que pensez-vous de notre chanson de but? 🇨🇦🎶#WorldJuniors | #MondialJunior https://t.co/xaAyZwJ4RG
— Hockey Canada (@HockeyCanada) December 27, 2024
While speculation swirled about this year’s choice, the coaching staff and players kept the selection under wraps, adding to the suspense leading into the tournament.
Before the tournament, players shared their dream goal song picks, from classic rock to pop. The team ultimately chose a song that embodies unity, celebration, and the joy of hockey.
McKenna scored Canada’s first goal of the tournament, cleaning up a rebound and dangling past Finland’s Petteri Rimpinen with 51 seconds left in the first frame.
Easton Cowan, Luca Pinelli, and Matthew Schaefer also found the back of the net, while goaltender Carter George delivered a flawless performance as Canada blanked Finland 4-0 on day one of the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championships.
CANADA STRIKES FIRST 🗣️
Gavin McKenna buries his own rebound to give Canada a 1-0 lead.#WorldJuniors pic.twitter.com/7RwTO9jSBv
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) December 27, 2024
George turned aside all 31 shots he faced while Rimpinen made 38 saves in the loss.
With the tournament in full swing and the team off to a strong start, one thing is clear: when Canada scores, the whole nation will be singing along.
Canada plays again on Friday night as they face Latvia in Group A action.
