Team USA captured their first Olympic gold medal in men’s hockey in 46 years with a 2-1 win over their rivals Canada. The triumph marks the first time the US prevailed at the Games since the famous "Miracle on Ice” in 1980. The game was decided by a goal from Team USA’s Jack Hughes in overtime and concluded a thrilling encounter in Milan-Cortina. "It's a journey, the whole lifetime of work. I'm just a part of that. I think every single person in that game can be proud. Obviously, a great game and we had the better outcome but just a great game between USA and Canada," said Hughes. Following a cagey start at Milan's Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena, Team USA took the lead after Matt Boldy chipped the puck over two players before scoring. Canada struggled to gain any momentum but eventually tied the game in the 38th minute when a Devon Toews switch found Cale Makar to score. Canada dominated the rest of the encounter, recording 41 shots to the Americans' 26 in the third period; however, they couldn’t beat an inspired Connor Hellebuyck in goal for the US. Neither team was able to net a winning goal, which prompted three-on-three overtime for the first time in Olympic history. It would be the US who would prevail in the end when Hughes buried a shot past Canadian keeper Jordan Binnington one minute and 41 seconds to end the game and seal the gold medal.
