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Canada and USA to clash in men's ice hockey final
The Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will conclude with a highly anticipated men's ice hockey final between Canada and the United States on Sunday at 13:10 GMT at Milano Santagiulia Arena.
Historic rivalry and contrasting Olympic legacies
Canada aims to secure a record 10th men's ice hockey gold medal, having last triumphed in 2014. The United States, however, has not claimed the title since the famed "Miracle on Ice" victory over the Soviet Union in 1980. The last U.S. win over Canada in an Olympic final dates back to 1960.
Canada has prevailed in their past two Olympic finals against the U.S., in 2002 and 2010. The Americans, however, recently defeated Canada's women's team in Milan, seeking a double gold in the men's competition.
Dramatic paths to the final
Both teams faced challenges en route to the final. Canada overcame a 2-0 deficit to beat Finland 3-2 in their semi-final on Friday, scoring the winning goal with just 35 seconds remaining. The U.S. also required overtime to advance past Sweden in the quarter-finals, with Quinn Hughes netting the decisive goal.
Canada's campaign has been marred by injuries and illness. Captain Sidney Crosby missed the semi-final against Finland due to a knee injury sustained in the quarter-final against the Czech Republic, though the team hopes he will recover in time for the final. Additionally, forward Nathan MacKinnon was visibly unwell during the quarter-final, vomiting on the bench.
Star power and team dynamics
Despite setbacks, Canada boasts an exceptionally talented roster. Connor McDavid, described by commentator Seth Bennett as "the best player on the planet by a million miles," has been a standout performer, averaging three points per game. Nathan MacKinnon and defenseman Cale Makar further bolster Canada's offensive and defensive capabilities.
Canada also features emerging talent like 19-year-old Macklin Celebrini, who has set a record for the most points by a teenager in Olympic competition.
"You mix them up and it's like if you have a computer game and you put all the best players on one team."
Seth Bennett, ice hockey commentator
The U.S. team, while strong, lacks the same depth of attacking talent. Key players include the Tkachuk brothers (Brady and Matthew) and Jack Eichel, though captain Auston Matthews has yet to dominate games as expected. Defenseman Quinn Hughes, however, has been a standout, earning praise for his performance in the quarter-final.
NHL's return elevates Olympic competition
The return of NHL players to the Olympics for the first time since 2014 has significantly raised the competition's quality. Bennett noted that the presence of NHL stars has transformed the tournament, delivering thrilling plays and high-scoring games.
"This is the highest level of hockey we have ever seen at an Olympics. The NHL players have made it a different world."
Seth Bennett
Political undertones and fan dynamics
The final could take on added significance with the potential attendance of political leaders. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, an avid hockey fan, is expected to be in Milan. The presence of U.S. President Donald Trump, however, remains uncertain but could escalate tensions given his contentious remarks about Canada in the past.
Trump's previous comments, including threats of tariffs and suggestions of Canada becoming the 51st U.S. state, have strained relations. His appearance at the opening ceremony in San Siro was met with boos from the crowd. A similar reaction in Milan could heighten the charged atmosphere.
Despite political tensions, Bennett expects the final to be fiercely competitive but less volatile than previous encounters, such as the chaotic 2025 Four Nations match in Montreal, which saw multiple fights within seconds.
Neutral fans face a tough choice
For neutral spectators, the decision on whom to support may be challenging. While the U.S. represents the underdog, Canada's roster of star players makes them an equally compelling choice.
"Canada are a bit arrogant too, but they have all the favorite players. How do you not love a team with all those players? But how do you not love a USA team who are having this much fun?"
Seth Bennett
