Sidney Crosby left Canada’s quarterfinal game with a lower-body injury against the Czechia men’s national ice hockey team at Santagiulia Arena. NHL insider Frank Seravalli posted on X that Crosby would not return for Canada.
Crosby was first hit by Radko Gudas at center ice. He later collided again with Gudas and Martin Necas along the boards. He skated to the bench midway through the second period and did not return. The bench looked unsettled after his exit.
Fans quickly reacted online. One fan wrote, “Sidney Crosby is the Bo Nix of Canada hockey team just can’t compete without the kid.”
Another posted, “WHERE IS YOUR RAGE FOR YOUR CAPTAIN CANADA. YOU’RE GONNA LET SIDNEY CROSBY DOWN LIKE THIS??” The injury became the main talking point of the game.
“CANADA YOU ARE LETTING YOUR INJURED LORD AND SAVIOR SIDNEY CROSBY DOWN. stop it!!” A fan reacted.
The Canada men’s national ice hockey team had entered the knockout round as the top seed at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Canada opened group play with a 5-0 win over Czechia. They followed with a 5-1 victory against Switzerland and a 10-2 win over France. That run secured the No. 1 seed. Connor McDavid played a big role in group play with 9 points.
Team Canada Struggled Against Czechia Before Mitch Marner’s Game Winner
The quarterfinal rematch against Czechia proved tighter. Canada outshot Czechia 40-23 but struggled in key moments, especially after Crosby’s injury. Ondrej Palat scored in the third period to shift momentum. Canada converted once on three power plays.
Defensive lapses allowed Czechia to stay level till the third period with a 3-3 score. Later, Mitch Marner scored the game-winning goal in overtime.
Also read: “Crosby as Charizard” Fans Argue Over Connor McDavid’s Pokemon Comparison
Crosby’s absence added pressure during even-strength play. Canada pushed for control but lacked its usual finish on several plays. The tournament returned to full NHL participation for the first time in 12 years. Expectations remain high for Canada as it chases gold.
Now, attention turns to Crosby’s status. Fans wait for updates while Canada fights to stay alive in the bracket.