SUMMARY
- Quinn Hughes’ wrist shot with 6:33 remaining in overtime clinched a 2-1 US victory over Sweden.
- The win guarantees the Americans a chance at a medal for the first time since the 2010 Winter Games.
- The US now faces Slovakia in the semifinals, with potential rematch against Canada in the final.
MILAN — Quinn Hughes scored a dramatic overtime goal Thursday, lifting the United States men’s hockey team to a 2-1 victory over Sweden at the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena and securing a spot in the semifinals against Slovakia.
The win extends the Americans’ unbeaten run to 4-0 in the 2026 Winter Games tournament.
The victory provides the US team its toughest test of the tournament so far. Sweden, composed entirely of NHL players alongside the US and Canada, challenged the Americans’ defensive and offensive strategies.
Quinn Hughes’ overtime goal ensured the continuation of US medal aspirations, demonstrating composure under pressure in high stakes international competition.
The tournament has showcased top-tier talent, with NHL experience a common denominator among leading teams. The US team has not reached the medal round in 16 years, highlighting the broader significance of Thursday’s result.
Earlier in the game, Jack Hughes set up Dylan Larkin’s second period deflection goal, giving the US an early advantage.
Sweden equalized in the final minute of regulation after pulling goaltender Jacob Markstrom for an extra attacker.
“Overtime victories against elite opposition are crucial for building team momentum and confidence,” said Dr. Michael Carter, professor of sports psychology at Boston University.
“Quinn Hughes’ ability to create space and execute under fatigue reflects a high level of skill and mental resilience.”
Former NHL coach Brian Burke, now a consultant with USA Hockey, said, “The US demonstrated strategic patience and defensive discipline.
Maintaining composure after Sweden tied the game shows maturity uncommon in international tournaments.”
Quinn Hughes: Overtime hero with decisive wrist shot
Dylan Larkin: Key contributor, second period goal deflection
Semifinal opponent: Slovakia, undefeated in group stage
Potential final: Canada, also an overtime winner
“It’s just a relief,” Hughes said. “I’m really enjoying being here with the guys and trying to extend it as long as we can.”
Dylan Larkin emphasized preparation for the next stage “Slovakia is playing well this tournament. They are dangerous. We have to be ready.”
USA Hockey general manager Bill Guerin highlighted the team’s unity: “This group has shown resilience, talent, and a capacity to handle pressure, which is essential at the Olympic level.”
The US will face Slovakia in the semifinals Friday. A victory guarantees at least a bronze medal and maintains potential for gold in a likely matchup with Canada.
Analysts note that sustained defensive focus and special teams efficiency will be key determinants of success.
Quinn Hughes’ overtime goal underscores the United States’ renewed competitiveness in Olympic men’s hockey.
With confidence strengthened and the semifinals ahead, the team remains positioned to challenge traditional powerhouses, potentially marking the most significant US performance since 2010.
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