MILAN, Italy – Jack Hughes’ overtime goal secured a dramatic 2-1 victory for the United States over Canada in the gold medal game of the men’s ice hockey tournament at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympic Games. The goal, scored just 1 minute and 41 seconds into the extra period, delivered the Americans their first Olympic gold in men’s hockey since 1980.
The win came on the 46th anniversary of the “Miracle on Ice,” the improbable 4-3 victory over the Soviet Union at the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid. While this contest lacked the underdog narrative of its predecessor, the intensity and significance of a U.S.-Canada gold medal showdown were undeniable.
Hughes, a forward for the New Jersey Devils, collected the puck in the Canadian end during a 3-on-3 overtime period and slipped a shot through the five-hole of Canadian goaltender Jordan Binnington. The goal ignited a jubilant celebration on the ice, with American players leaping and embracing, tossing equipment into the air.
The game was a goaltending duel throughout, with both Connor Hellebuyck of the U.S. And Binnington of Canada delivering outstanding performances. Hellebuyck finished with 41 saves, consistently denying Canada’s potent offensive attack. Binnington was equally impressive, keeping Canada in the game despite sustained American pressure.
Canada had a chance to tie the game late in regulation, earning a power play, but the U.S. Penalty kill held firm. Earlier in the third period, the Americans had a four-minute power play of their own but were unable to capitalize.
“I can’t even believe this,” Hughes said, smiling despite having lost a few teeth earlier in the game after being high-sticked. “I mean, it’s such an unbelievable game, USA-Canada. That’s such a good game. They have so many great players. We’re a great team. That’s exactly how we wanted it to go. We wanted to go through Canada and beat them. It’s an unbelievable win for the Americans.”
This victory marks the third Olympic gold medal for the United States in men’s ice hockey, adding to their triumphs in 1960 and 1980. It also continues a recent trend of American success against Canada in major international competitions, building on a win over their rivals in round-robin play at last year’s 4 Nations Face-Off.
The Americans navigated a challenging tournament path to reach the gold medal game. They previously secured an overtime victory against Sweden in the quarterfinals, demonstrating their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. Canada also faced tough competition, rallying to overcome deficits against Czechia in the quarterfinals and Finland in the semifinals.
Canada had not lost an Olympic game involving NHL players since the 2010 Vancouver Games, where the Americans defeated them in round-robin play before Canada ultimately won the gold medal. Sidney Crosby scored the golden goal for Canada in that 2010 final, a memory undoubtedly fresh in the minds of both teams heading into Sunday’s contest. Crosby, however, was absent from the Canadian lineup for this game due to an undisclosed injury.
The U.S. Victory is a testament to the growing talent pool in American hockey and the team’s ability to execute under pressure. The gold medal represents a significant achievement for the program and a moment of national pride. The win also solidifies the United States’ position as a perennial contender in international hockey, signaling a new era for the program.
The game was played at Santaguilia Arena in Milan, and the atmosphere was electric, with fans from both countries passionately supporting their teams. The rivalry between the U.S. And Canada is one of the most storied in all of sports, and this gold medal game added another chapter to its rich history.
For Canada, the loss is a bitter disappointment. They entered the tournament as one of the favorites and were expected to contend for the gold medal. Despite a strong performance throughout the tournament, they were unable to overcome a determined American team and a stellar performance by Hellebuyck in net.
The American team’s success is a culmination of years of development and investment in youth hockey programs. The emergence of players like Hughes, along with a strong supporting cast, has positioned the U.S. As a force to be reckoned with on the international stage. This gold medal victory is not just a win for the team, but a win for the entire American hockey community.
