MILAN — The U.S. Men’s hockey team is one win away from a medal, securing a spot in the Olympic semifinals Wednesday night with a thrilling 2-1 overtime victory against Sweden. The win, secured by a goal from Quinn Hughes with 6:33 remaining in overtime, wasn’t without a late scare, as a late equalizer from Mika Zibanejad forced the game into extra time.
The Americans, who had dominated their group stage opponents with a combined score of 16-5, found themselves in a much tighter contest against a Swedish team looking to make a run of their own. Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck proved crucial, stopping 28 of 29 shots, including a critical save late in the third period to keep the game tied.
“We got guys that have won [Stanley] Cups and gone deep in the playoffs and superstars in the league, so I feel like it’s a resilient group and a lot of experience. You just pick yourself back up, get ready to go,” defenseman Quinn Hughes said after the game.
The U.S. Took the initial lead in the second period thanks to a well-executed play off a face-off. Dylan Larkin redirected a shot from Jack Hughes – the brothers connecting for a pivotal goal. However, Sweden refused to go quietly. With just 1:31 remaining in regulation, and their goaltender pulled for an extra attacker, Zibanejad found the back of the net, sending the game to overtime and silencing the American crowd.
The overtime period was a frantic affair, with both teams trading chances. Hughes ultimately ended the game, capitalizing on a play where he waved off a substitution, signaling to coach Mike Sullivan that he had the energy to continue. That decision proved to be the right one, as Hughes’ goal sent the U.S. To the semifinals.
This victory marks the first time Team USA has reached the Olympic semifinals since 2010. The team now stands two wins away from claiming its first gold medal in men’s hockey since the “Miracle on Ice” in 1980.
The Americans will face Slovakia in the semifinals on . Slovakia advanced after a dominant 6-2 win over Germany, fueled by goals from NHL players Pavol Regenda (San Jose Sharks) and Dalibor Dvorský (St. Louis Blues).
“Their goalie’s playing incredible. Our goalie is playing incredible. It’s going to make for a hell of a semifinal,” said winger Matthew Tkachuk, acknowledging the challenge ahead.
The game also saw a moment of concern for Canada, as captain Sidney Crosby left their quarterfinal match against Czechia with a lower leg injury after a collision. Canada ultimately prevailed in overtime as well, setting up a semifinal matchup against the winner of the other quarterfinal.
Team USA’s success hasn’t just been about individual brilliance. The team has demonstrated a knack for capitalizing on set plays throughout the tournament, converting opportunities off face-offs in multiple games. This tactical approach, combined with the tireless effort of players like Hughes – who logged over 27 minutes of ice time against Sweden – has proven to be a winning formula.
Hughes’ performance has been particularly noteworthy. He leads the team with six points in four games and his overtime winner was his first-ever Olympic goal. His willingness to stay on the ice, even when fatigued, speaks to his commitment and leadership.
While the U.S. Has been offensively potent at times, the team’s ability to grind out a close victory against Sweden demonstrates a resilience that will be crucial as they navigate the pressure of the medal rounds. The semifinal against Slovakia promises to be another tough test, but Team USA is confident they can continue their Olympic journey.
