USA Defeat Canada to Win Olympic Women’s Hockey Gold

The United States clinched the Olympic gold medal in women’s ice hockey with a dramatic 2–1 overtime victory over Canada in Milan. The win marked America’s third Olympic gold in the sport and its first since 2018, ending Canada’s hopes of repeating its 2022 triumph. The final once again underscored the intensity of one of the fiercest rivalries in international sport.

For much of the match, the Americans trailed a disciplined Canadian side. However, resilience and late composure turned the contest in their favour.

Canada Strike First in Tense Final

Canada opened the scoring early in the second period when Kristin O’Neill netted a short-handed goal, finishing a breakaway that stunned the previously unbeaten American defence. It was the first time the United States had fallen behind in the tournament.

Canada tightened its structure after taking the lead, frustrating American attacks and limiting clear scoring opportunities deep into the third period.

Late Equaliser Forces Overtime

With less than three minutes remaining in regulation, Hilary Knight redirected a shot from Laila Edwards in front of the net to level the score. The equaliser shifted momentum and revived American hopes.

The goal forced overtime, setting the stage for another dramatic chapter in Olympic women’s hockey history.

Keller Seals Historic Comeback

Just three minutes into overtime, Megan Keller beat Canadian goaltender Ann-Renée Desbiens to secure the gold medal. The decisive strike triggered jubilant celebrations as years of preparation culminated in a single defining moment.

The victory restored American supremacy on the Olympic stage and extended a rivalry that has shaped the women’s game since 1998.

Important Facts for Exams

• Women’s ice hockey was introduced at the Winter Olympics in 1998 (Nagano).
• The United States and Canada have dominated Olympic women’s hockey since inception.
• Overtime in Olympic ice hockey follows sudden-death format in knockout stages.
• The 2026 Winter Olympics are being held in Milan-Cortina, Italy.

Rivalry Defines the Sport

The narrow margin once again highlighted the competitive balance between the two North American powers. For Canada, the loss was a crushing setback after leading late into regulation. For the United States, the comeback symbolised determination and belief under pressure, reinforcing its stature in global women’s ice hockey.