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Posted: Nov 6, 1:40p ET | Updated: Nov 7, 3:34a ET

U.S. beats Canada 3-2 in Four Nations prelims

VIERUMAKI, Finland (AP) -- Meghan Duggan scored the winner in the second period and the United States beat Canada 3-2 in their final group game of the Four Nations Cup.

Both teams had already advanced to Saturday's final, with Friday's game deciding the winner of the group in Finland.

"The ladies stepped up, competed very hard and did the little things we talked about before the game," said U.S. head coach Mark Johnson. "This was a friendly match and good competition, now tomorrow we get to play for a championship." 

Duggan netted the decisive goal with 14 seconds to go in the second period after an assist from Kelli Stack. The U.S. took a 2-0 lead in the first period on a power-play goal by Natalie Darwitz and a short-handed goal by Hilary Knight before Canada tied it.

Also Friday, Sweden beat Finland 2-1 with an overtime goal. The teams will play for third place Saturday.

The Americans are the defending champions after beating Canada in a penalty shootout last year.

The 23 women on the U.S. roster are playing for 21 spots on the 2010 Olympic team. USA Hockey will announce the Vancouver roster on Dec. 17.

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