The Canadians were forced to work hard in front of a partisan home crowd and were on the back foot at times against plucky opponents who have already exceeded all expectations by reaching the final.

But the quality of the North Americans eventually told as they proved better at converting chances when they arose.

Brad Marchand found the net first early in the opening period before a Steven Stamkos doubled the lead with his first strike of the tournament.

Tomas Tatar, the hero of the semi-final win over Sweden, pulled one back before Patrice Bergeron completed the job for Canada to make it 3-1.

Home superstar Sidney Crosby thrived again with two assists as Carey Price also made two saves.

There was much for the Europeans to remain confidence about, however, heading into the second game on Thursday (September 29).

They outshot the Canadians 13-9 and threatened throughout.

Canadian coach Mike Babcock admitted the opponents were a "well-organised group" afterwards.

But one more win for his team will be enough to secure the trophy for the nation who also won the last World Cup of Hockey, in 2004.