For the first time since the Miracle on Ice in 1980, Team USA is golden again.
The United States defeated Canada 2–1 in overtime in the 2026 Olympic men’s hockey final, reclaiming the top spot on the podium in a game that was destined for instant-classic status. Both teams entered undefeated through preliminary and knockout play, leading to a rematch of last year’s 4 Nations Face-Off title game – which Canada won in overtime.
This time, the Americans flipped the script.
From the golden goal to emotional tributes, the game’s top photos captured every ounce of the action.
Hughes’ golden moment
Tied 1–1 after overtime, the Americans needed less than two minutes in 3-on-3 overtime to win the game.
jack hughes – The teeth apparently disappeared after taking the high stick in the third period – took the bait from Zach Werenski and broke the puck Jordan Binnington For the winner.
boldy strikes first
Earlier in the game, minnesota wild Ahead matt boldy A spectacular puck-juggling goal gave Team USA an early lead, making the score 1-0.
Capricorn answers for Canada
Canada didn’t blink.
black capricornA second-period goal pulled the defending champions level. Makar’s shot reflected the heavyweight feel of the matchup as the momentum seemed to be shifting.
Turning point: Mackinnon’s miss and Hellebuyck’s paddle
The gold medal game may ultimately be remembered for Hughes’ overtime winner, but a memorable sequence came midway through the third period.
nathan mackinnon — the NHL’s leading goal scorer, leading the league leaderboard with six goals — found himself mostly staring at an open net connor hellebuyck Slipping out of position. MacKinnon attempted a goal from point-blank range that would have given Canada a 2–1 lead. Instead, the puck sailed wide.
Afterwards, Hellebuyck delivered the performance that saved the tournament.
Midway through the third period, with the game hanging in the balance, Hellebuyck swung his paddle to deny devon toews At what appeared to be a definite target.
This preserved the tie and gave the Americans a chance to chase history.
Amidst the celebration a poignant moment occurred.
Ahead Matthew Tkachuk And defenseman Zack Werenski welcomes kids His late NHL teammatesJohnny Gaudreau, in Team USA’s postgame photo. The image added emotional weight to an already unforgettable night and demonstrated how this team’s bond extends beyond the ice.
A festival in the making for 46 years
As the final horn sounded, another image was etched in Olympic history.
Forty-six years after Lake Placid, Team USA once again topped the Olympic podium.
