2026 Winter Olympics: USA win men's ice hockey gold for first time in 46 years
BBC World
February 22, 2026
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The United States achieved a historic victory by winning the men's ice hockey gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics, marking their first triumph in this category since 1980. In a thrilling final against Canada, the U.S. overcame a fierce rivalry and secured the win in overtime thanks to Dylan Larkin's decisive goal. The game, held in Milan, was a rematch between two hockey powerhouses, with both teams showcasing intense skill and determination. Despite Canada's dominance in puck possession and shots on goal, they struggled to capitalize on their opportunities, while the U.S. defense, led by standout performances like Matt Boldy's early breakaway, proved resilient.
The match was characterized by high stakes and emotional intensity, especially given the political undertones. President Donald Trump had previously sparked tensions with his comments about trade tariffs and Canada's role as the "
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/22/2026