5 Key Takeaways from Day 3 of the Olympics

Casey Halston

Published: February 15, 2026 1:04 PM ET

The men’s hockey tournament at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 witnessed significant action on Day 3, featuring four thrilling matches. Team Finland triumphed over Team Sweden with a score of 4-1, while Team Slovakia narrowly beat Team Italy, claiming a 3-2 victory. Additionally, Team Czechia secured a strong win against Team France, finishing the game at 6-3, and Team Canada dominated Team Switzerland with a 5-1 scoreline.

5 Key Takeaways from Day 3 of the Olympics

1. Canada Assembles a Star-Studded Lineup

Canada’s head coach Jon Cooper showcased a remarkable strategy by featuring three of the top four scorers in the NHL on the same line. Connor McDavid leads the league with 96 points from 58 games. Nathan MacKinnon follows closely with 93 points from 55 games, and the young talent Macklin Celebrini has 81 points, also from 55 games.

2. Celebrini Shines in High-Pressure Situations

The 19-year-old Celebrini scored a crucial goal for Canada early in the second period, extending their lead against Switzerland to 3-1. This impressive performance illustrates his skill on a grand stage.

3. McDavid and MacKinnon Supply Key Assists

Both McDavid and MacKinnon did not just score; they also significantly contributed to Celebrini’s and later MacKinnon’s goal that sealed the 5-1 victory. Their collaboration was instrumental in Canada’s success.

4. Canada’s Strategy Could Intimidate Competitors

Cooper’s decision to blend his top talents raises questions about the team’s tactics. Could this aggressive approach serve as a psychological strategy against their opponents? It certainly sends a message about their offensive capabilities.

5. Ongoing Tournament Dynamics

With such a potent lineup, observers are eager to see how Canada performs in future matches. The team’s strategy and execution could be pivotal in determining their journey in the tournament.

Day 3 of the men’s hockey tournament not only showcased emerging talents but also set the stage for intense competition as teams vie for Olympic glory. Keep following Filmogaz.com for comprehensive coverage of the Winter Games.