USA win men’s Olympic ice hockey gold as Team USA ended a 46-year drought with a dramatic 2-1 overtime victory over Canada in Milan. The win marks the first American men’s hockey gold since the Miracle on Ice at Lake Placid in 1980.
Jack Hughes scored the decisive goal 1:41 into sudden death overtime. Zach Werenski carried the puck out of the defensive zone and delivered a perfect pass to Hughes, who finished from close range past Canada’s Jordan Binnington. The arena erupted as the Americans celebrated a historic moment.
“I love the USA, I love my teammates. It is unbelievable,” Hughes said after the game. “The USA hockey brotherhood means so much.”
Matt Boldy gave the United States an early lead in the first period with a solo effort past two defenders. Canada equalized late in the second period through Cale Makar. From there, the final became a test of resilience.
Canada outshot the United States 41-26 through regulation and overtime, but Connor Hellebuyck held firm in goal. He made 41 saves, keeping the Americans alive under constant pressure. Hughes called Hellebuyck “our best player tonight by a mile,” reflecting the crucial role of the goaltender in the final outcome.
Canada pressed relentlessly in the third period. Nathan MacKinnon missed an open net from a tight angle, while Macklin Celebrini and Connor McDavid were denied on high-danger chances. Canada’s captain, Sidney Crosby, was absent due to a leg injury, leaving a void in leadership.
Olympic rules require three on three sudden death in a gold medal match. The first goal ends the game. Hughes’ goal came after careful transition play, illustrating the speed, skill, and precision that define elite hockey. The Americans’ ability to execute under pressure highlighted a generation of players ready to carry the program forward.
The victory is not just about a single game. It reflects a decade of development and strategic investment in American hockey. A blend of NHL stars and young talent delivered in high-pressure situations. The win also reshapes the historic rivalry with Canada, traditionally dominant in Olympic men’s hockey.
Earlier in the tournament, the American women defeated Canada 2-1 in overtime to secure gold. For the first time, both U.S. national teams captured Olympic titles in the same Winter Games, signaling the strength and depth of USA Hockey.
The arena was packed, and the tension was palpable throughout regulation. When the final horn sounded, American players tossed gloves and sticks into the air in spontaneous celebration. The team later skated with a number 13 jersey to honor Johnny Gaudreau, who passed away in 2024. His family attended the game in Milan.
President Donald Trump congratulated the team on Truth Social, noting the historic win. The gold medal ceremony saw the United States on the top step, Canada taking silver, and Finland bronze. The American national anthem echoed in the arena as players posed for photographs with their medals.
Hughes finished the tournament with four goals and three assists, cementing his role as a high-impact player. Hellebuyck was named best goaltender of the competition, a recognition of his decisive performance under immense pressure.
USA win men’s Olympic ice hockey gold ends a 46-year wait and closes the Milan Cortina Winter Games with one of its most memorable events. The victory rewrites the narrative for American men’s hockey and sets a high standard for the next Olympic cycle.
