The United States defeated arch-rivals Canada 2-1 in a thrilling overtime finish to capture the women’s ice hockey gold medal at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
Defender Megan Keller delivered the decisive blow four minutes into sudden-death three-on-three overtime, scoring a stunning goal to clinch the title for the Americans. Keller cleverly drew her defender out of position before firing past Canadian goaltender Ann-Renée Desbiens, sparking wild celebrations on the ice.
The victory marks the United States’ first Olympic gold in women’s ice hockey since the Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Olympics and their third overall title in the event.
Canada had struck first in the second period through Kristin O’Neill, ending the Americans’ remarkable 352-minute streak without conceding a goal since their opening win over the Czech Republic.
With just over two minutes remaining in regulation, US captain Hilary Knight stepped up when it mattered most. Knight netted the dramatic equaliser — her 15th career Olympic goal — forcing overtime and rewriting the record books. The strike made her the all-time leading Olympic goal scorer in USA women’s ice hockey history, further cementing her legendary status in the sport.
The latest showdown continued the intense North American rivalry that has defined women’s Olympic ice hockey since its debut in 1998. Canada, five-time champions, were aiming to reclaim the crown but fell just short in yet another classic final between the two powerhouses.
Earlier in the day, Switzerland defeated Sweden 2-1 to secure the bronze medal.
The men’s competition continues, with Canada set to face Finland and the United States taking on Slovakia in the semi-finals.
Source: BBC, Milano Cortina Olympics 2026
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