In a thrilling finale at the Milan Cortina Games, Megan Keller's backhand goal in overtime secured the United States its third Olympic gold in women’s hockey, edging out Canada 2-1. This latest chapter in one of sports’ most intense rivalries saw American captain Hilary Knight, in her fifth and final Olympics, force overtime by tipping in Laila Edwards’ shot with just over two minutes left in regulation. Knight’s goal marked her 15th in Olympic play, setting a new U.S. record.
With the game in 3-on-3 overtime, Keller raced up the left wing, outmaneuvered Claire Thompson, and delivered a backhand shot past Canadian goalie Ann-Renee Desbiens. "I’m lost for words," Keller expressed, highlighting the team’s dedication and unity over their four-year journey.
The U.S. team, which previously captured gold in 1998 and 2018, faced a formidable Canadian squad that has claimed five golds in past Olympics. Aerin Frankel was stellar in goal, stopping 30 shots, while Kristen O’Neill scored Canada’s lone goal, a short-handed effort.
This matchup was the seventh Olympic meeting between the two teams decided by a single goal and the third to require extra time. The rivalry’s history includes Canada’s 3-2 overtime win in Sochi 2014 and the U.S.’s shootout victory in Pyeongchang 2018.
The Americans dominated the tournament with a perfect 7-0 record, outscoring opponents 33-2. Despite a 5-0 preliminary round defeat to the U.S., Canada pushed the Americans to their limits in the final. O’Neill’s goal early in the second period ended the U.S.’s shutout streak, but Knight’s late-game heroics ensured the game went to overtime.
Laila Edwards, making history as the first Black woman to represent the U.S. in hockey, played a crucial role in the tying goal. "We knew we had it in us," Keller said, emphasizing the team’s belief and determination.
For Canada, this tournament was a potential swan song for their veteran core, led by Marie-Philip Poulin. Despite their age, the Canadians showed resilience, keeping the game within reach until the very end.
The U.S. victory extended their winning streak against Canada to eight games, a run that began with two victories at the world championships and continued with a dominant exhibition series. Under coach John Wroblewski, the U.S. team underwent significant changes from the squad that fell to Canada in 2022, featuring a mix of veterans and fresh talent, including seven college players.