MILAN — The much-anticipated Milano Cortina Olympic Games hockey gold medal final between Team USA and Team Canada was nearly derailed twice in Wednesday’s quarterfinal round.
Both the U.S. and Canada needed overtime to move on to Friday’s semifinals.
Quinn Hughes scored 3 minutes, 27 seconds into the extra period to secure a 2-1 U.S. victory over Sweden after the Americans gave up a goal with just over 90 seconds left in the third period.
Canada moved on thanks to 4-3 victory against Czechia on Mitch Marner’s goal after the pre-tournament favorites twice were forced to come from behind against a team they had beaten 5-0 earlier in the tournament.
Dylan Larkin gave the U.S. a 1-0 lead in the second period on a redirect goal that appeared like it would hold up until Mika Zibanejad scored for Sweden with 1:31 remaining in regulation.
This story will be updated.