Team USA Men's Hockey Beats Slovakia 6-2 to Reach Olympic Gold Medal Game

Team USA men's hockey beat Slovakia 6-2 on February 19, 2026, to reach the Olympic gold medal game. This is the second time this week Team USA has reached a hockey gold medal game after the women's team won.
By Newsroom | Sports, Olympics |

Olympic Hockey Tournament Reaches Critical Juncture

Team USA's men's hockey team has secured a place in the gold medal game of the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina, following a decisive victory over Slovakia. This win sets up a highly anticipated championship match against Canada, with the gold medal at stake. The outcome of this game will determine the Olympic champions in men's ice hockey.

Red, white, blue and gold? Takeaways from Team USA's dominant win over Slovakia - 1

Path to the Gold Medal Game

The men's ice hockey tournament has progressed through its preliminary and knockout stages, leading to the final contenders. Team USA's journey included a critical semifinal match against Slovakia.

Red, white, blue and gold? Takeaways from Team USA's dominant win over Slovakia - 2

  • Match Result: The United States defeated Slovakia with a score of 6-2.

  • Next Opponent: Team USA will face Canada in the gold medal game.

  • Previous Day's Success: The U.S. women's hockey team had previously secured the gold medal by defeating Canada.

Game Details and Performance

The semifinal match against Slovakia saw Team USA maintain control, ultimately leading to their advancement.

Red, white, blue and gold? Takeaways from Team USA's dominant win over Slovakia - 3

  • Score: 6-2 in favor of Team USA.

  • Key Player Mentioned: Jeremy Swayman started in goal for Team USA, though initial reports suggest a "shaky start."

  • Slovakia's Performance: Despite the loss, Slovakia displayed resilience, fighting back during the game and even having a chance to win according to one report.

Broader Olympic Context

The men's hockey final is a significant event within the larger Olympic program.

Red, white, blue and gold? Takeaways from Team USA's dominant win over Slovakia - 4

  • Women's Curling: In women's curling, the U.S. team lost to Switzerland, who advanced to their gold medal game.

  • Medal Count: Team USA has claimed 10 gold medals at the Milano Cortina Games, with various athletes achieving notable milestones across different sports.

Team USA's Olympic Achievements

Beyond the men's hockey team's success, Team USA has seen considerable achievement across multiple disciplines at these Winter Games.

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  • Ice Hockey: Several players have ties to the NHL, with mentions of Dylan Larkin and Jack Hughes in relation to the upcoming gold medal game. Information regarding players like Jack and Luke (brothers who play in the NHL) and Larkin (Detroit Red Wings captain) has been highlighted.

  • Other Sports: The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic website notes athletes' accomplishments in sports like Freestyle Skiing and Speedskating, with details on medal counts and personal achievements.

Looking Ahead: The Gold Medal Clash

The upcoming gold medal game between Team USA and Canada is poised to be a major event, continuing a historical rivalry. The success of both the men's and women's hockey teams underscores a strong performance by the United States in ice hockey at these Olympics.

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