MILAN — The U.S. men’s hockey team faced a heart-pounding moment on Wednesday. A single goal could have dashed their Olympic dreams. Instead, they clinched a spot in the semifinals after a nail-biting 2-1 overtime win against Sweden. This victory brings them one step closer to winning their first medal since 2010.
Defenseman Quinn Hughes scored the game-winning goal just 3:27 into overtime. “We have guys with Stanley Cup experience. We pick ourselves up and get ready to go,” Hughes said.
In their first three matches in Milan, Team USA had shown impressive scoring, netting five goals each in two games and six in another. But against Sweden, they had to rely on their defense. U.S. goalie Connor Hellebuyck, named NHL MVP last season, stopped 28 of Sweden’s 29 shots. The one that slipped through came with just over a minute left in regulation, tying the game.
The overtime was tense, featuring fast-paced 3-on-3 play until Hughes found the back of the net. Teammate Matthew Tkachuk recalled feeling unsure if the puck went in or hit the post. “But hearing the crowd roar made me jump higher than I have since my surgery,” he joked. Tkachuk had recently recovered from a major operation.
The Americans initially led with a second-period goal from Dylan Larkin, who redirected a shot from Jack Hughes, Quinn’s brother. Yet, they struggled to widen that lead, facing constant pressure from the Swedes that culminated in the late equalizer.
Tkachuk pointed out, “When two strong teams meet, you expect an offense-heavy game. But it was defense that ultimately made the difference.”
This win secures a shot at a medal for the U.S., regardless of the outcome against Slovakia in the semifinals. Tkachuk acknowledged the challenge ahead, saying, “Both goalies have been incredible, making the semifinal even more exciting.”
Canada also faces challenges
On the opposite bracket, Canada narrowly escaped an upset against Czechia, thanks to a late game-tying effort. Leading 3-2 with only minutes to go, they knew one misstep could lead to a crushing loss.
“That’s hockey,” Nathan MacKinnon reflected. “We didn’t play perfectly, but it was enough.” The situation grew urgent for Team Canada after star player Sidney Crosby left the game due to injury, raising questions about his return in the knockout stages.
In the world of hockey, where every moment counts, it’s clear both teams are feeling the Olympic pressure. Team USA is just a win away from competing for gold, while Canada must regroup quickly for the challenges ahead.
