Badgers lead US women’s hockey to 3rd Olympic gold in 2-1 nail biter over Canada

Badgers lead US women’s hockey to 3rd Olympic gold in 2-1 nail biter over Canada

February 20, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom Sports

The United States defeated Canada 2-1 in overtime at the Milan Cortina Games on Thursday night, securing their third Olympic gold medal in women’s hockey and continuing a fierce rivalry between the two nations. The decisive goal came from Megan Keller, a backhanded shot scored at 4:07 into the extra period.

A Golden Moment For Team USA

The victory wasn’t without drama. With just 2:04 remaining in regulation time, American captain Hilary Knight forced overtime by tipping in a shot from Laila Edwards. This goal marked a historic achievement for Knight, becoming the U.S. Record holder with her 15th Olympic goal and 33rd overall point.

Did You Know? This marks the third Olympic gold medal for the U.S. Women’s hockey team, following victories at the 1998 Nagano Games and in 2018 in Pyeongchang.

In the 3-on-3 overtime period, Keller capitalized on a chance, breaking up the left wing and maneuvering past Claire Thompson before firing the winning shot over Ann-Renee Desbiens’ right pad. Aerin Frankel was instrumental in the win, stopping 30 shots throughout the game.

A Game of Inches

Canada’s Kristen O’Neill opened the scoring with a short-handed goal, and Desbiens made 31 saves in a valiant effort. Despite the close contest, the U.S. Dominated the tournament going undefeated with a 7-0 record and a combined score of 33-2.

Expert Insight: The intensity of this rivalry underscores the growing prominence of women’s hockey on the international stage. The close scoreline demonstrates Canada’s ability to challenge the U.S., even after a dominant performance by the Americans throughout the tournament.

This year’s Olympics also held special significance as the first Games for Laila Edwards, who became the first Black woman to represent the U.S. In hockey.

Fans Celebrate Across Wisconsin

The victory resonated beyond the rink, with celebrations erupting across the United States, including enthusiastic gatherings in Madison, Wisconsin. Fans, including families with young aspiring hockey players, gathered to cheer on the team.

Meghan Peterson of Burlington attended a viewing party with her children, noting the inspirational impact of seeing UW-Madison players compete on the Olympic stage. Her daughter, Nora, who recently began playing hockey, expressed excitement about pursuing her own dreams of playing the sport.

The atmosphere at Union South on the UW-Madison campus was described as electric by Kristi Deitz and Holly Stadler, with a diverse crowd united in their support for the team.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did the United States win the gold medal?

Megan Keller scored the winning goal at 4:07 into overtime with a backhanded shot.

Who scored for Canada in the gold medal game?

Kristen O’Neill scored a short-handed goal for Canada.

What is Hilary Knight’s significance to U.S. Women’s hockey?

Hilary Knight forced overtime with her 15th Olympic goal, breaking the U.S. Record for both goals and points in Olympic play with 33 total points.

What impact will this victory have on the future of women’s hockey?

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