Feb 22, 2026; Milan, Italy; Connor Hellebuyck #37 of Team United States celebrates after winning the goal medal game against Team Canada during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena. Mandatory Credit Reuters: Geoff Burke-
Olympics: Ice Hockey-Men Finals – Gold Medal Game -Credit Reuterss
MILANO CORTINA, Italy– The United States captured its first Olympic men’s hockey gold medal in 46 years, defeating Canada 2-1 in overtime at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics.
The championship was decided 1:41 into sudden death play when Jack Hughes found open ice and fired the game winning shot past the Canadian goaltender, setting off a jubilant on ice celebration by Team USA. The win marks the first gold since 1980, and adds another chapter to hockey’s historic rivalry.
Canada opened the scoring in a tightly contested matchup marked by speed and physical play. The United States responded with disciplined defensive structure and timely offense, leveling the game and forcing a tense third period in which neither side broke through.
Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck played a central role in the outcome, turning away a heavy Canadian attack and keeping the Americans within reach during extended stretches of pressure. His steady performance allowed the U.S. to remain composed late in regulation and into overtime.
Three-on-three overtime created open ice and heightened urgency. Hughes capitalized quickly, ending the game before Canada could reset its defensive alignment.
The gold medal marks a milestone for USA Hockey, which has steadily developed into a global contender over the past two decades. Defeating Canada on the Olympic stage carries added significance, given the long-standing competitive history between the two nations.
As players gathered for the medal ceremony in Italy, the achievement reflected both the growth of the American program and the resilience displayed throughout the tournament. In his speech, Jack Hughes said “We are proud to be American”.
With the victory, the United States returns to the top of Olympic men’s hockey a position it had not held since Lake Placid more than four decades ago.
