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2013 U18 WJC Video: Shane Eiserman, USA
Photo: Team USA forward Shane Eiserman is taking part in his first U18 tournament after completing his first season as part of the U.S. NTDP (courtesy of Scott A. Schneider/Getty Images)
Early on at the 2013 U18 World Junior Championship, it looked as though Team USA might not have enough to make a run at a fifth consecutive gold medal at this tournament. But the team has come together as the U18 has progressed and, after a wild, 4-3 shootout win over host Russia in the semi-finals, the USA will in fact do battle for another gold medal.
2013 U18 WJC Video: JT Compher, USA
Photo: Team USA captain JT Compher has turned in a strong performance for his country at the 2013 U18 World Junior Championship (courtesy of Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
In what was a see-saw battle ultimately decided in a shootout, the USA defeated Russia, 4-3, to move on to their fifth consecutive gold medal game at the U18 World Junior Championship. Team USA's opponent in the championship game will be Canada, who are going for their first gold medal win in five years at this event.
2013 U18 WJC Video: Madison Bowey, Canada
Photo: Kelowna Rockets defenseman Madsion Bowey, shown here taking part in the 2013 CHL Top Prospects Game, has been an effective performer for Canada at the 2013 U18 WJC (courtesy of Richard Wolowicz/Getty Images)
When it comes to competing for gold at the U18 World Junior Championship, perhaps Canada should lobby to have the tournament in Russia every year. Russian ice has been kind to the Canadians at this tournament as Canada has won gold the two most recent times the U18 has been held in Russia.
2013 U18 WJC Video: Dillon Heatherington, Canada
Photo: Swift Current Broncos defenseman Dillon Heatherington has been a steady presence on the blue line for Team Canada at the 2013 U18 WJC (courtesy of Marissa Baecker/Getty Images)
For the first time since 2008, Canada will be competing for gold at the U18 World Junior Championship. The Canadians moved on to the gold medal game at this year's event by virtue of their 3-1 win over Finland in a semi-final match that took place at the Bolshoy Ice Dome in Sochi, Russia.
2013 U18 WJC Video: Steve Santini, USA
Photo: USA defenseman Steve Santini has been ranked among the first round talent for the 2013 NHL Draft since taking part in the 2012 All-American Prospects Game in September (courtesy of Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
Although Team USA's defense lacks some of the star power that was on hand at the U18 World Junior Championship last year in the Czech Republic, this year's group has played very well during the team's march to their semi-final meeting with Russia.
