Feb. 22, 2026 — Milano Cortina, Italy — The U.S. men’s ice hockey team defeated Canada 2-1 in overtime Sunday to capture its first Olympic gold medal in 46 years, with Jack Hughes scoring the game-winner at 1:41 of the extra frame in the gold medal final at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
Matt Boldy opened the scoring for the Americans at 6:00 of the first period with a backhand goal assisted by captain Auston Matthews and Quinn Hughes. Cale Makar tied it for Canada at 18:16 of the second on a wrist shot. U.S. goaltender Connor Hellebuyck made 41 saves despite being outshot 42-28, earning tournament best goaltender honors while Quinn Hughes was named top defender. The U.S. finished undefeated at 4-2-0-0.
The victory marked Team USA’s third Olympic men’s hockey gold, following triumphs in 1960 and the famed 1980 “Miracle on Ice.” Hughes’ winner came off a cross-ice pass from Zach Werenski after a goaltender assist from Hellebuyck in 3-on-3 overtime.
“It doesn’t matter about the goal. Just an unbelievable team, unbelievable team win. We’re so proud to be American… Our goalie stood on his head.” — Jack Hughes
Head coach Mike Sullivan called the win an inspiration to the country.
Team USA honors late teammate Johnny Gaudreau with his No. 13 jersey during on-ice celebrations. (Photo from ABC News X post)
The team paid tribute to late teammate Johnny Gaudreau, who died with his brother Matthew in August 2024 after a cycling accident involving an alleged drunk driver. Teammates paraded his No. 13 jersey on the ice and included his children, Noa and Johnny Jr., and parents in the medal photo.
“I honestly felt (Johnny’s presence) the whole tournament… This is something John would have been at.” — Zach Werenski
President Donald Trump held a video call with the team, congratulating them and inviting them to his State of the Union address. Captain Matthews called it an honor to represent the U.S. The U.S. women’s gold medal team, which beat Canada earlier, declined the SOTU invitation citing scheduling conflicts, per a CNN post.
Canada’s Sidney Crosby sat out injured, and coach Jon Cooper praised the sport despite the loss. Trump posted on Truth Social: “Congratulations to our great U.S.A. Ice Hockey team. THEY WON THE GOLD. WOW!“
New York Post front page hails the ‘breathtaking’ win 46 years after Miracle on Ice. (Image from NY Post X post)
