Team Canada’s run at the 2026 Winter Olympics ended with a 2-1 overtime loss to the United States in the gold medal game.
The final was tight from start to finish. The United States struck first, but Canada answered with Cale Makar’s goal and forced overtime, with no goals in the third period. Both teams traded chances, and goaltending shaped the night.
In the extra frame, the Americans found the winner with Jack Hughes’ goal and claimed gold.
After the final horn, Nathan MacKinnon faced the media and left a pointed remark.
“You be the judge of who was the better team today,” MacKinnon said.
The comment quickly spread online and drew strong reactions from fans on both sides.
“The Bluejays said the same thing about losing to the Dodgers in the World Series. Must be a Canadian thing!! 😂” One fan joked.
“Canada was the better team today, but in sports, sometimes the team that deserves it comes out on the bottom. That’s sports.” Another fan wrote.
“Honestly… I lowkey agree. They were really on top of it with the organization of plays and stamina. US was scrappy and pulled the win, but CA played awesome.” A third fan wrote.
“5 of their guys were better than 5 of our guys most of the game. A team however, is 6. And our 6th guy won it fair and square.” A USA fan said.
“Yikes! I hope he didn’t say that. I am 100% Canadian fan and wanted a Canada win. More deserving? They absolutely dominated the 2nd and 3rd period … it wasn’t even close. Connor H. stood on his head. Just one minor little detail, Canada could not score. Hats off to USA!!!” One fan mentioned.
“On paper, the Canadian team outplayed the United States. Time of possession in the offensive zone, shots on goal. There two star players, McKinnon and makar both missed open net opportunities. In addition, they failed to score on a 5-3 power play….. Hockey is breaks and bounces,” A fan reacted.
Team Canada’s Silver run in the 2026 Winter Olympics
Canada entered the tournament as a favorite and played like it early. It beat Czechia 5-0, Switzerland 5-1, and France 10-2 in Group A. The offense looked sharp, and the roster showed depth at every position. Many believed another gold medal was within reach.
The knockout stage tested that belief. Canada edged Czechia 4-3 in overtime in the quarterfinals. It then defeated Finland 3-2 in a tight semifinal to book a meeting with the United States. The rivalry added weight to an already high-stakes game.
The loss snapped Canada’s streak of Olympic titles in events with NHL players, they played without Sidney Crosby, who was injured. Canada left with silver after a strong run that fell one goal short. Connor McDavid became the MVP with 13 points, but MacKinnon’s comment captured the frustration in the room.