Quinn Hughes' Overtime Goal Sends U.S. to Semifinals at Mens Hockey Olympics

Quinn Hughes scored in overtime to give the United States a 2-1 quarterfinal victory over Sweden at the mens hockey olympics, sending Team USA into the semifinals and keeping the American bid for a gold medal alive.

Instant classic in Milan — Hughes ends it in overtime

Hughes finished the game-winning play at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena in Milan, Italy, on Feb. 18, 2026, as his shot in overtime rang off the inside of the post and crossed the line to break a 1-1 tie and deliver a 2-1 result over Sweden.

The overtime sequence was tense: the United States missed its first five shots of the extra period before Hughes' sixth attempt found the net, a decisive moment that produced celebration among his teammates on the ice.

Mens Hockey Olympics — Hughes' remarks and the reaction

After the game Hughes told reporters, "I love the U. S., and it's the greatest country in the world. So, I'm happy to represent here with these guys, and it was very special, " comments that underscored the emotion of the win at the mens hockey olympics and drew strong responses from supporters online.

Fans reacted on social media with messages such as "American Hero Quinn Hughes" and other posts praising his patriotism following the overtime winner.

What comes next: a semifinal against Slovakia

The victory advances the United States into the Olympic men's hockey semifinals, where Team USA will face Slovakia. Other quarterfinal results set Canada against Finland, with both Canada and Finland having rallied from deficits to win in overtime earlier the same day.

Team USA’s next confirmed event is the semifinal match against Slovakia, the immediate test that follows Hughes’ dramatic shot and the quarterfinal triumph.