Hellebuyck’s Heroics Propel Team USA to Olympic Semifinals
Milan, Italy – The United States men’s hockey team secured a dramatic 2-1 sudden-death overtime victory against Sweden in Wednesday’s Olympic quarterfinal, fueled by a stellar performance from goaltender Connor Hellebuyck and a game-winning goal by defenseman Quinn Hughes. The win propels Team USA into the semifinal round, where they will face Slovakia on Friday.
A Tense Battle to Overtime
The game was a nail-biter from the start. Dylan Larkin opened the scoring for the U.S. in the second period, deftly deflecting a Jack Hughes shot past Swedish goaltender Jacob Markström. Watch Larkin’s goal here. However, Sweden refused to go down without a fight. With just 1:31 remaining in regulation and Markström pulled for an extra attacker, Mika Zibanejad unleashed a powerful one-timer, tying the game at 1-1 and sending the contest into overtime. See Zibanejad’s tying goal.
Hughes Seals the Victory
The Olympic overtime format, a 3-on-3 sudden-death period, proved to be the stage for Hughes’ heroics. With 6:33 gone in the extra frame, Hughes ripped a slapshot past Markström, sending the U.S. bench into a frenzy and securing the 2-1 win. Relive Hughes’ game-winner. The U.S. dominated possession in overtime, setting the stage for Hughes’ decisive shot.
Hellebuyck Stands Tall
Connor Hellebuyck was a brick wall for the majority of the game, stopping 29 of 30 shots faced. His exceptional goaltending kept the U.S. in the game, particularly during a tense third period where Sweden applied significant pressure. Markström also had a strong performance, turning away 38 of 40 shots from the Americans.
Semifinal Matchup and Other Results
Team USA’s victory sets up a highly anticipated semifinal clash against Slovakia on Friday. In the other semifinal, No. 1 seed Canada will face No. 4 seed Finland. Both games promise to be thrilling contests as teams battle for a chance to compete for the gold medal.
The quarterfinal round was filled with drama, with three of the four games going to overtime. Canada defeated Czechia 4-3, and Finland edged Switzerland 3-2, both in overtime. Slovakia cruised past Germany with a decisive 6-2 victory.
Game Stats
- Shots on Goal: USA 40, Sweden 30
- USA Goalscorers: Dylan Larkin, Quinn Hughes
- Sweden Goalscorer: Mika Zibanejad
- USA Goaltender: Connor Hellebuyck (29 saves)
- Sweden Goaltender: Jacob Markström (38 saves)
This victory marks a significant step for Team USA in their quest for Olympic gold. With Hellebuyck in net and a determined roster, they are poised to make a deep run in the tournament.
