The American team had beaten Canada in overtime yesterday to finish top of the group standings, with the reward being a semi-final encounter against a South Korean side who had been beaten in all three of their matches.

It therefore came as no surprise when the United States raced into a 2-0 advantage in the first period, with Brody Roybal and Adam Page finding the net.

The holders would put the match out of sight in the second period, scoring a further five times to end any South Korean hope.

Paul Schaus would add the United States’ eighth goal in the third and final period of the match, before Ju-Seung Lee scored a consolation in a powerplay to end the scoring at 8-1.

The result saw the United States remain on track for a third straight title at the event, with their team having also shown their strength in depth during the match, as each of their eight goals came from different players.

Canada will seek revenge for their round robin defeat in the final on Saturday (December 10), having cruised past the challenge of Norway.

The host nation were unable to make the breakthrough in a goalless first period, but took full control by scoring five times in the second without reply.

Greg Westlake scored his second on the match during the third period to complete Canada’s 6-0 win.

They will hope to win the tournament for the ninth time when they play the United States, who are appearing in their sixth straight final.

Norway and South Korea will contest the bronze medal match at the four-team tournament.