Young Player Scores First Goal for Canada in Olympics Hockey Game

Canada's hockey team has scored its first goal in the Olympics. Young player Macklin Celebrini scored the goal against Czechia. The team is playing well in their first game.
By Newsroom | Sports, Olympics |

Canada has taken the lead in their opening men's hockey game against Czechia at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, with Macklin Celebrini scoring the first goal for his country in the tournament. The pivotal moment occurred with just seconds remaining in the first period, shifting the game's momentum.

Celebrini tips home point shot for Canada’s first goal at Milano Cortina 2026 - 1

Game Opening and First Period Play

The contest between Canada and Czechia, part of the preliminary round of the Olympic men's hockey tournament, saw Canada secure a 1-0 advantage as the first period concluded. This marks Canada's initial goal in the ongoing Games. The team had a prior opportunity on a power play earlier in the period, but were unable to convert.

Celebrini tips home point shot for Canada’s first goal at Milano Cortina 2026 - 2

Celebrini's Debut Goal

Macklin Celebrini, the youngest player on Team Canada's roster, was responsible for breaking the scoreless tie. He redirected a shot from defenseman Cale Makar with 5.7 seconds left in the first period. The puck found its way past Czechia's goaltender, Lukas Dostal.

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Celebrini tips home point shot for Canada’s first goal at Milano Cortina 2026 - 3

The play originated with Connor McDavid, who retrieved the puck in the Czechia zone and passed it to Makar. Makar, positioned near the point, fired a shot that Celebrini, situated in front of the net, deflected into the goal. This was Celebrini's first Olympic goal.

Celebrini tips home point shot for Canada’s first goal at Milano Cortina 2026 - 4

Player Background and Expectations

Celebrini's inclusion on the Olympic team, despite his youth, reflects high expectations for his performance. He has been noted as a significant player for Team Canada, with sources indicating he is "going to be asked to play a big role." Prior to this Olympic debut, Celebrini had represented Canada at various international levels, including the 2025 IIHF World Championship, where he recorded six points in eight games, and the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship. He also played for Canada at the IIHF World U18 Championship in 2023, leading his team in scoring.

Upcoming Schedule

Following their match against Czechia, Canada's preliminary round schedule includes games against Switzerland on Friday and France on Sunday.

Key Players and Contributions

  • Macklin Celebrini: Scored the opening goal, youngest player on Team Canada.

  • Cale Makar: Provided the assist on Celebrini's goal with a shot from the point.

  • Connor McDavid: Retrieved the puck and initiated the play leading to the goal.

  • Lukas Dostal: Goaltender for Czechia who allowed the goal.

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The sources suggest that Celebrini's immediate impact is not a surprise, with prior indications that he was set to play a significant role. His talent and readiness for the world stage have been a topic of discussion leading up to and during the tournament.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who scored the first goal for Canada?
A young player named Macklin Celebrini scored the first goal for Canada.
Q: Who did Canada play against?
Canada played against Czechia in their first Olympic hockey game.
Q: How old is Macklin Celebrini?
Macklin Celebrini is the youngest player on Team Canada's Olympic team.
Q: What happened in the first period?
Canada was leading 1-0 against Czechia at the end of the first period, thanks to Celebrini's goal.