Canada vs USA: 2026 Olympic Men's Hockey Gold Medal Game on Feb 22

Canada and the USA will play for the Olympic gold medal in men's hockey. Canada has won 12 gold medals to the USA's 4 in Olympic history.
By Newsroom | Sports, Hockey |

The 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina will culminate in a highly anticipated men's ice hockey gold medal game, featuring a fierce rivalry between Canada and the United States. This matchup, set for Sunday, February 22nd, at 14:10 CET, marks a significant moment in the tournament, pitting two nations with rich hockey histories against each other for the ultimate prize. Both teams have navigated challenging paths to reach the final, and the game is expected to draw considerable global attention.

2026 Olympic Games: Canada faces archrival U.S. in men's gold-medal hockey game - 1

Path to the Final

Both Canada and the United States secured their spots in the gold medal game through semi-final victories.

2026 Olympic Games: Canada faces archrival U.S. in men's gold-medal hockey game - 2

  • Canada's path included a dramatic 3-2 comeback win over Finland, the reigning Olympic champions, with a late goal sealing their advancement. This victory followed a tournament where Canada was considered a favorite and largely lived up to that billing.

  • The United States advanced with a more decisive 6-2 victory over Slovakia. Key offensive bursts, including a rapid scoring sequence in the second period, propelled them into the final.

Historical Context and Rivalry

The men's Olympic hockey final between Canada and the United States carries significant historical weight.

2026 Olympic Games: Canada faces archrival U.S. in men's gold-medal hockey game - 3

  • This matchup will be the 19th Olympic encounter between the two nations in men's ice hockey. Historically, Canada holds a clear advantage with 12 wins to the U.S.'s four, with three draws.

  • The presence of National Hockey League (NHL) players in this tournament adds another layer, harkening back to previous Olympics where professional players competed. In the five previous Olympic tournaments featuring NHL players, Canada has won four times against the U.S.

  • The rivalry is often framed with a nod to past upsets, most notably the "Miracle on Ice" in 1980, though recent history suggests a more balanced competition when top talent is involved.

Key Players and Statistics

Both rosters are packed with elite talent, including some of the sport's most prominent figures.

2026 Olympic Games: Canada faces archrival U.S. in men's gold-medal hockey game - 4

  • Connor McDavid of Canada is the tournament's top scorer with 13 points, underscoring his significant offensive impact.

  • Canada has also demonstrated team-wide offensive prowess, leading the tournament in goals scored with 27, compared to the U.S.'s 24.

  • For the United States, players like Jack Hughes and Jack Eichel have been instrumental in their offensive surges. Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck has been highlighted as a key advantage for the U.S., with statistics suggesting he holds an edge in the final.

TeamKey Player ExamplesTournament Goal DifferentialRecent Head-to-Head (NHL Players)Historical Olympic Wins (Men's)
CanadaConnor McDavid, Mitch Marner, Nathan MacKinnon+14 (27 GF, 13 GA)1-4 record vs. USA12
United StatesJack Hughes, Jack Eichel, Connor Hellebuyck+11 (24 GF, 13 GA)4-1 record vs. Canada4

Note: Goal differential figures are inferred from goals for and against data where available. Historical wins are based on total Olympic encounters, not exclusively those with NHL players.

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Broadcast and Viewing Information

The gold medal game will be accessible to a wide audience through various media rights holders across different territories.

  • The game is scheduled to begin at 14:10 CET on Sunday, February 22nd.

  • Specific broadcast details for Canada include channels such as CBC, Bell Media, and Rogers Media.

  • In the United States, viewers can tune into NBC Olympics and Peacock.

  • Global coverage is provided by entities like Warner Bros. Discovery, the BBC, and national broadcasters in numerous countries, ensuring broad accessibility.

Broader Implications

Beyond the immediate sporting contest, the matchup between Canada and the United States in the Olympic final carries broader significance. It represents a high-profile celebration of the sport, especially with NHL players participating. The rivalry itself is a significant narrative, amplified by the intensity seen in other recent international competitions, such as the 4 Nations Face-Off. The outcome will not only determine the gold medal but also add another chapter to the storied history between these two hockey powerhouses.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is the 2026 Olympic men's hockey gold medal game between Canada and the USA?
The gold medal game is scheduled for Sunday, February 22nd, 2026, at 14:10 CET. This highly anticipated match will decide the Olympic champion.
Q: How did Canada and the USA reach the 2026 Olympic men's hockey final?
Canada won their semi-final game against Finland with a close 3-2 score. The United States advanced by defeating Slovakia with a decisive 6-2 victory.
Q: What is the historical record between Canada and the USA in Olympic men's hockey?
Canada has a strong historical advantage, winning 12 out of 19 Olympic encounters against the USA, who have won 4. This rivalry is one of the oldest in the sport.
Q: Who are the key players to watch in the Canada vs USA 2026 Olympic hockey final?
Canada's Connor McDavid is the tournament's top scorer with 13 points. For the USA, Jack Hughes and Jack Eichel are key offensive players, with goalie Connor Hellebuyck also being a strong asset.
Q: Where can I watch the 2026 Olympic men's hockey gold medal game between Canada and the USA?
The game will be broadcast on CBC, Bell Media, and Rogers Media in Canada, and on NBC Olympics and Peacock in the United States. Global coverage is also available through various international broadcasters.