Team USA Stuns Canada in Overtime Thriller to Capture Women’s Olympic Hockey Gold
In one of the most dramatic finishes of the 2026 Winter Olympics, Team USA defeated defending champion Canada 2–1 in overtime Thursday night in Milan to capture Olympic gold in women’s hockey.
The victory came on a sudden-death goal by Megan Keller just 4:07 into overtime, ending an eight-year wait for the Americans and delivering one of the most memorable moments of the Games.
A Rivalry for the Ages
The United States and Canada have long defined women’s Olympic hockey. Between them, they have claimed every gold medal in Olympic history. Canada entered the final as defending champion, having won six of the previous eight Olympic titles.
From the opening puck drop, the intensity reflected the stakes.
Canada struck first, taking a 1–0 lead and holding it for most of the game. The Americans pressed relentlessly but struggled to break through Canada’s defense and goaltender Ann-Renée Desbiens.
With time winding down and gold slipping away, Team USA delivered under pressure.
Hilary Knight Forces Overtime
With just 2:04 remaining in regulation, captain Hilary Knight tipped in the tying goal, sending the American bench into celebration and silencing a largely pro-Canada crowd.
Moments before overtime began, Knight confidently told teammates, “We’re gonna win the game.”
That belief proved prophetic.
Keller’s Golden Moment
Just minutes into overtime, Megan Keller took control.
She maneuvered past a defender with poise, then slid a backhand shot past Desbiens to secure the 2–1 victory and Olympic gold for the United States.
The goal immediately ignited celebration across the American roster, marking one of the defining plays of the 2026 Games.
A Potential Shift in Power
The win signals more than just a championship — it hints at a potential shift in momentum in a sport historically dominated by Canada.
After eight years without Olympic gold, the Americans reclaimed the top of the podium in dramatic fashion.
Players described the victory as their toughest challenge yet.
“Makes it all the more special to go into this battle and come out champions,” Keller said after the game.
For Team USA, this wasn’t just a win. It was redemption, resilience, and a reminder that in this rivalry, anything can happen.