NHL 4 Nations Face-Off - United States v CanadaFights have broken out between US and Canadian ice hockey players after the Star Spangled Banner was booed by fans.
The bad-tempered bruising encounter between the two neighbouring nations was marred by animosity in the wake of US President Donald Trump‘s strong-arm trade tariff threats.
As the United States’ national anthem was played on Saturday night at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Canada, some of the 21,000 fans were heard to boo the tune.
And the anger seemingly spilled onto the ice, as three fights broke out between Canadian and American players in just the first nine seconds of the game.
President Trump has threatened 25% tariffs on most Canadian imports, with another 10% on Canadian oil, natural gas and electricity, but so far the tariffs have been delayed.
Mr Trump also has said Canada “would be much better off” being the 51st US state.
READ MORE… Donald Trump’s tariff war sees Canada and Mexico fold to border demands [LATEST] US fans with flags inside the stadium Crowds booing the US national anthem has become a common feature at many Canadian sporting events since the start of a threatened trade war between the two North American countries.
Jeers and whistles have also been heard at NBA basketball games, as well as at other hockey fixtures.
In the match on Saturday night the USA were triumphant on the field, beating the Canadians 3-1 in the fiery encounter.
Saturday February 15 also marked Flag Day in Canada, a date set aside for people of the country to mark the 60th anniversary of the inauguration of their flag.Canadian and US players scuffle We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, whom Mr Trump has referred to as “governor”, on issued a statement encouraging Canadians to proudly wave the flag, adding: “Let’s keep writing Canada’s enduring story.”
Five of Canada’s former prime ministers, Joe Clark, Kim Campbell, Jean Chrétien, Paul Martin and Stephen Harper, wrote an open letter earlier in the week asking Canadians to fly their flag in a display of national pride.
“We’ve had our share of battles in the past. But we all agree on one thing: Canada, the true north, strong and free, the best country in the world, is worth celebrating and fighting for,” they wrote.
Canada’s current maple leaf flag, with the ensign of the United Kingdom removed, officially appeared on February 15, 1965.
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