Sunday, February 22, 2026 l Dalena News Desk
MILAN, ITALY — Team Canada’s quest for men’s hockey gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics ended in narrow fashion Sunday, as the United States prevailed 2–1 in overtime in a dramatic final a result made more poignant by the fact Canada competed without its captain, Sidney Crosby, sidelined due to injury.
Crosby, the 38-year-old Pittsburgh Penguins star and longstanding face of Canadian hockey, was ruled out of the medal game after sustaining a lower-body injury earlier in the tournament. He also missed the semifinal victory over Finland, leaving superstars such as Connor McDavid to lead the team on ice in his absence.
Sunday’s matchup saw the U.S. open the scoring early as Matthew Boldy netted the first goal on the Americans’ first shot of the game. Canada responded in the second period through Cale Makar, tying the score 1–1 and forcing the contest into overtime after a tense third period.
In sudden-death extra time, Jack Hughes became the hero for the Americans, scoring the game-winning goal 1:41 into overtime to secure the United States men’s hockey team’s first Olympic gold medal since the iconic 1980 “Miracle on Ice.” Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck turned in a spectacular performance with 41 saves to anchor the U.S. victory.
Canada’s silver medal performance was hard-fought and hard-earned, marked by resilience and determined play despite the absence of its captain. McDavid filled in as captain for the second straight game, leading a team effort that nearly matched the U.S. until the dramatic overtime finish.
Crosby’s absence was a major storyline throughout the tournament. He suffered the injury in Canada’s quarterfinal overtime win against Czechia and was initially uncertain for subsequent games, but ultimately sat out both the semifinal and final to avoid risking further harm. In remarks afterward, he emphasised that the decision was made with the best interests of the team in mind.
The loss denies Canada its first Olympic men’s hockey gold since 2014 — a prestigious achievement the nation has long pursued and felt confident about entering the tournament. Nonetheless, the silver medal stands as a testament to the team’s grit and high-level play amid adversity.
This edition of the Olympics will be remembered for its intense hockey rivalry, a historic victory for the United States, and the emotional twists that came with Canada’s injury-impacted campaign.