The composite European team had been expected to struggle by many heading into the tournament, and a full strength US team seemed likely to prove too much in front of strong support at the Air Canada Centre..

But from the outset they looked dangerous, combining organised defence with clinical attacking in a match-up which appeared more familiar to a golf than an ice hockey audience.

Slovakian Marian Gaborik scored the opener in the first period before further strikes from Germany's Leon Draisaitl and France's Pierre-Edouard stunned the pro-American crowd.

Another Slovak in goalkeeper Jaroslav Halak made 35 saves in a perfect team performance by a group of players who are usually rivals.

It was apt that, instead of a National Anthem, every goal should be accompanied by the sounds of White Stripes' Seven Nation Army.

"The confidence we showed with the puck was outstanding," said a delighted Team Europe coach Ralph Krueger.

"We handled their pressure and I’m proud how we played. 

"We needed a perfect night, and we got it."

Ice hockey normality was restored in the second game of the night when Canada swept past Czech Republic, 6-0.

It took just 48 seconds for Crosby to make on impact with an early breakaway attempt which narrowly missed the goal.

He ultimately posted one goal and two assists as Patrice Bergeron also scored twice for the hosts.

Action will begin in Group B tomorrow when Russia face Sweden before Finland take on a composite North American team.

Competition is set to continue until October 1 in what marks the first World Cup of Hockey for 12 years.