World Juniors: QMJHL Stars Feldbergs, Bulans & Capitals Prospect Mateiko Upset Team Canada

Latvia has made history, thanks in no small part to the performances of three of their QMJHL stars.

After being historically outscored 44-4 in all previous meetings, Latvia has beaten Canada for the first time in World Junior history.

Sherbrooke Phoenix 19-year old goaltender Linards Feldbergs had himself quite the game. The Ogre native stopped 54 of 56 shots (.964) in regulation and shootout and sealed the net completely in overtime stopping eight for eight.

For Feldbergs, it was a bit of a revenge game as he played for Latvia in last year's game against Canada, letting in seven goals on 31 shots.

With a game like that, it was no surprise that Feldbergs was the team's player of the game.

Another Latvian QMJHL player who had a big game was Chicoutimi Saguenéens blueliner Peteris Bulans.

The 19-year-old defender picked up a goal for Latvia, tying the game in the third to bring the game into overtime.

The other star of the game was 2024 Washington Capitals third round pick Eriks Mateiko.

Mateiko, much like Feldbergs, was a major reason why Latvia was still in the game.

The Saint John Sea Dogs captain opened up the scoring for Latvia with just over six and a half minutes left in regulation.

As one of the team's top snipers, when the game went to shootout, he was the team's fifth shooter. After missing the net the first go around, seven shots into the duel -- he was given a second chance. He made sure he didn't miss, scoring a picture perfect snipe -- going off the bar and in.

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