USA Win Gold: Women’s Hockey Olympic Final 2026 – Results & Highlights

U.S. Women’s Hockey Team Claims Gold in Dramatic Overtime Victory at Milan Cortina 2026

Milan, Italy – In a thrilling gold medal game that went down to the wire, the United States women’s national ice hockey team defeated Canada 2-1 in overtime on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics. The victory marks the third Olympic gold medal for the U.S. Women’s team, adding to their previous triumphs in 1998, and 2018. The game, played before a captivated audience, showcased the intense rivalry between the two hockey powerhouses and culminated in a moment of elation for the American squad.

The gold medal win wasn’t without a fight. Canada took an early lead, with Kristin O’Neill scoring a shorthanded goal in the 21st minute. The U.S. Team, entering the final with an Olympic record of five consecutive games without conceding a goal – including a dominant 5-0 victory over Canada in the preliminary round – faced a determined Canadian side. With just over two minutes remaining in regulation time, U.S. Captain Hilary Knight scored a crucial tying goal, sending the game into overtime and etching her name further into Olympic hockey history.

The dramatic equalizer came off a tip-in from Knight, redirecting a shot from Lalia Edwards. This goal was not only pivotal in securing the tie but also marked Knight’s record-breaking 15th career goal and 33rd career point at the Winter Olympics, solidifying her status as the all-time leading scorer for the U.S. Women’s hockey team. The overtime period was short-lived, as Megan Keller scored the golden goal just five minutes in, securing the championship for the United States.

Knight’s Historic Performance Caps Stellar Olympic Career

Hilary Knight’s performance throughout the tournament, and particularly in the gold medal game, was a testament to her skill and leadership. The 36-year-old veteran, competing in her fifth and final Winter Olympics, delivered when her team needed her most. Her record-breaking goal against Canada was her third of the 2026 Winter Olympics, further showcasing her offensive prowess. Knight’s impact extends beyond scoring; she is a respected figure in the sport and a role model for aspiring female hockey players.

Following the victory, Knight expressed her joy, stating, “No way,” when informed of her record-breaking achievement, adding, “I’m just happy about the gold medal. Oh my gosh, this feels amazing.” USA Today reported on her reaction. Knight’s Olympic journey began at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, where she won a silver medal. She will conclude her Olympic career with four medals – three silver and now, a coveted gold.

Adding to the personal significance of the day, Knight recently announced her engagement to U.S. Speed skater Brittany Bowe on Instagram, a moment that garnered widespread attention. This victory serves as a poetic ending to a remarkable career, both on and off the ice.

Canada’s Poulin Ends Olympic Career Without a Goal in the Final

For Canada, the loss marks the end of an era. Marie-Philip Poulin, the team’s captain and one of the most decorated players in women’s hockey history, was unable to add to her impressive Olympic goal-scoring record in the final. Poulin, 34, had previously scored in all four of her previous Olympic gold medal game appearances. This was also her final Olympic competition. The defeat is a bitter pill to swallow for the Canadian team, who had hoped to continue their dominance in women’s hockey.

The rivalry between the U.S. And Canada in women’s hockey is legendary. Since the sport’s inclusion in the Winter Olympics in 1998, only one nation other than the U.S. Or Canada has reached the final: Sweden, who won silver in 2006. This underscores the consistent excellence and competitive balance between the two North American teams.

Switzerland Secures Bronze with Overtime Win

In the bronze medal game, Switzerland defeated Sweden 2-1 in overtime, securing their second Olympic medal in women’s hockey. Alina Müller scored the winning goal 51 seconds into the extra period, mirroring her performance in the 2014 Sochi Olympics, where she also scored the decisive goal against Sweden to win bronze. Mira Jungaker had given Sweden the lead in the 32nd minute, but Sinja Leemann equalized for Switzerland shortly after.

Müller, who plays for the Boston Fleet in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) alongside Austrian player Theresa Schafzahl, proved to be the hero for the Swiss team. The Swiss victory demonstrates the growing competitiveness of women’s hockey on the international stage. ORF reported on the Swiss team’s victory.

Key Takeaways

• The United States women’s hockey team won their third Olympic gold medal, defeating Canada 2-1 in overtime.
• Hilary Knight broke U.S. Women’s Olympic records for both goals (15) and points (33) during the tournament.
• This was Knight’s fifth and final Olympic Games, capping off a decorated career.
• Canada’s Marie-Philip Poulin, also playing in her final Olympics, was unable to score in the gold medal game.
• Switzerland secured the bronze medal with a 2-1 overtime victory over Sweden.

The Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics have showcased the incredible talent and passion within women’s ice hockey. As the sport continues to grow in popularity, One can expect even more thrilling competitions and inspiring performances in the years to come. The next major international event for these teams will be the 2028 World Women’s Ice Hockey Championships, where they will have the opportunity to continue their rivalry and compete for another world title.

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