In a heart-stopping finale that will be etched in Olympic history, the United States women's national ice hockey team reclaimed the gold medal by defeating arch-rival Canada 2-1 in overtime at the 2026 Winter Olympics hockey results showpiece. The victory, secured by a dramatic sudden-death goal from defender Megan Keller, marks the third Olympic title for the American program and cements their status as the world's premier team in Milano-Cortina.
A Historic Battle at Milano Santagiulia
The atmosphere inside the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena was electric as the two superpowers of women's hockey met for their seventh gold medal showdown. For 60 minutes of regulation and four minutes of overtime, fans witnessed a masterclass in grit, speed, and defensive discipline. The USA vs Canada Olympic hockey 2026 final lived up to every expectation, delivering a physical and fast-paced contest that remained scoreless through the first period.
"This team's got so much resolve. Never quit. Always ready to fight and go to battle," said U.S. captain Hilary Knight, who played a pivotal role in the comeback. "It's just a testament to the preparation of our group and the love that we have in that room."
The Comeback: Knight Forces Overtime
After a scoreless opening frame, Canada broke the deadlock early in the second period. Canadian forward Kristin O'Neill capitalized on a shorthanded opportunity, beating U.S. goaltender Aerin Frankel to silence the American contingent and give Canada a 1-0 lead. For nearly 40 minutes, that lead held firm, as Canadian netminder Ann-Renée Desbiens turned away wave after wave of American attacks.
With time running out and the US women's hockey gold medal hopes fading, head coach John Wroblewski pulled Frankel for an extra attacker. The gamble paid off with just 2:04 remaining in regulation. Hilary Knight, playing in her record-breaking fifth Olympics, deflected a shot from rookie Laila Edwards into the net. The equalizer not only forced overtime but also solidified Knight's legacy, as she set new records for the most career Olympic goals and points in U.S. history.
Frankel and Desbiens: A Goaltending Duel
While the goal scorers will grab the headlines, the women's ice hockey gold medal game was defined by spectacular goaltending. Aerin Frankel was a wall for the United States, stopping 30 shots and keeping her team in the game during crucial penalty kills. Across the ice, Desbiens was equally formidable, making acrobatic saves that frustrated the American shooters until the dying moments of the third period.
Megan Keller's Golden Moment
The 3-on-3 overtime period opened with frantic end-to-end action, showcasing the immense skill of both rosters. The decisive moment arrived 4:07 into the extra session. American forward Taylor Heise unleashed a perfect stretch pass from behind her own goal line, springing Megan Keller on a breakaway. Keller, a veteran defender known more for her blue-line presence than her finishing, made no mistake. She deked to her backhand and lifted the puck over Desbiens' pad, sealing the Team USA hockey overtime victory.
"I don't know if I've scored an OT winner in my life," a tearful Keller admitted moments after the pile-up celebration. "I'm lost for words. This is an incredible feeling. I love these girls so much. This group deserves it."
Milano-Cortina 2026 Highlights: A Perfect Tournament
The victory caps a flawless tournament for Team USA, who went undefeated in Milan, outscoring opponents 33-2. The squad, a potent mix of veteran leadership and youthful energy, dominated the Milano-Cortina 2026 highlights reel with their speed and offensive creativity. Young stars like Heise and Edwards proved they are ready to carry the torch, while legends like Knight and Keller ensured the program returned to the top of the podium after taking silver in 2022.
For Canada, the loss is a bitter pill to swallow after a courageous performance. Captain Marie-Philip Poulin, seeking her fourth gold medal, led her team with characteristic intensity but ultimately fell just short. "It's hard to process right now," said Canadian defender Jocelyne Larocque. "We always had the belief that we could win. I'm proud of everyone."
As the American flag rose to the rafters of the PalaItalia, the USA hockey win over Canada served as a reminder of why this remains the greatest rivalry in women's sports. The 2026 Winter Games have delivered a final for the ages—one defined by resilience, brilliance, and a golden finish that will be celebrated for generations.
