The US men’s hockey team has taken an early 2-0 lead over Slovakia in the semifinals at the 2026 Winter Olympics, with goals from Dylan Larkin and Tage Thompson in the first period.
Early Goals Set Tone for Crucial Match
The United States is 40 minutes away from playing for the gold medal in men’s hockey at the Olympics. Dylan Larkin and Tage Thompson scored in the first period of the semifinal against Slovakia to give the US a 2-0 lead. Thompson is one of just a handful of newcomers on the team who did not play at the NHL-run 4 Nations Face-Off a year ago.
Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck has stopped all eight shots he faced so far, including on a couple of power plays made possible by US penalties. The US last reached the final in 2010 when it lost to Canada in overtime on Sidney Crosby’s famous golden goal. Canada also awaits this time after rallying to beat Finland in the other semifinal when Nathan MacKinnon scored with 35.2 seconds left.
Key Players and Moments
- Dylan Larkin scored the opening goal for the US.
- Tage Thompson added the second goal for the US.
- Connor Hellebuyck has been solid in goal for the US, stopping all eight shots faced.
As the game heads into the second period, the US will look to maintain its lead and secure a spot in the gold medal game. With Canada waiting in the wings after its comeback win over Finland, the stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the men’s hockey tournament at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
For more on the 2026 Winter Olympics and the US men’s hockey team, visit the official AP Olympics hub, a detail confirmed by Associated Press.
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