MILAN — A blistering overtime wrist shot from Quinn Hughes kept Team USA’s gold medal hopes alive Thursday, as the Americans defeated Sweden 2-1 in a dramatic men’s hockey quarterfinal at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics.
With 6:33 remaining in overtime, Hughes gathered the puck near the left faceoff circle, created space for himself and fired a rising shot that beat Swedish goaltender Jacob Markström glove side. The goal secured the United States’ place in the semifinals, where they will face Slovakia on Friday for a spot in the gold medal game.
“It’s just a relief,” Hughes said afterward. “We’re trying to extend this as long as we can.”
A Hard-Fought Battle
The matchup marked the toughest test yet for the Americans, who improved to 4-0 in the tournament. Sweden iced a roster made entirely of NHL players, joining the U.S. and Canada as the only teams in the field composed solely of NHL talent.
After a tightly contested, scoreless first period featuring standout saves from U.S. goalie Connor Hellebuyck, the Americans broke through late in the second frame.
Jack Hughes launched a shot from inside the blue line that was deflected midair by Dylan Larkin, slipping past Markström for a 1-0 lead.
The Americans appeared poised to close out the win until Sweden pulled its goalie in the final minute of regulation for a man advantage. Moments later, Lucas Raymond set up Mika Zibanejad for a one-timer that tied the game and forced overtime.
Semifinal Stakes Rise
Hughes’ decisive goal ensures the U.S. will compete for a medal for the first time since the 2010 Winter Games if they can defeat Slovakia in the semifinal. A loss would send them to the bronze medal match.
The Americans could still meet longtime rival Canada in the final, adding another chapter to one of hockey’s most storied international rivalries.
Despite the emotional win, players emphasized that the mission remains unfinished.
“It’s do or die,” Larkin said. “Slovakia is playing well. We’ve got to be ready.”
With momentum on their side and confidence growing, Team USA now stands two wins away from Olympic gold — powered by clutch performances and timely scoring when it matters most.
