MILAN – The United States men’s hockey team wrapped up the preliminary round of the 2026 Winter Olympics in commanding fashion, securing its third straight victory with a decisive 5-1 win over Germany.
The triumph at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena confirmed Team USA’s unbeaten 3-0 record in Group C play and guaranteed a direct berth into Wednesday’s quarterfinals.
Strong Group C Performance Secures Quarterfinal Bye
The Americans’ victory over Germany on Sunday, Feb. 15, cemented their position atop the Group C standings.
By finishing the preliminary round undefeated, the U.S. earned a valuable bye, avoiding the qualification round and advancing directly to the quarterfinal stage.
Team USA’s path to 3-0 included:
- A 5-1 opening victory over Latvia
- A 6-3 win against Denmark
- A 5-1 triumph over Germany
Both the United States and Canada concluded the group phase with nine points.
However, Canada claimed the No. 1 seed due to a superior goal differential, leaving the Americans in second place heading into the knockout rounds.
The U.S. will now face the winner of Tuesday’s qualification matchup between Sweden and Latvia.
USA Controls Game Despite Germany’s Star Power
Although Germany featured elite talent such as Leon Draisaitl, widely regarded as one of the top players in the world, the Americans dictated the pace throughout the contest.
A spirited rivalry also played out on the ice between Matthew Tkachuk and Draisaitl.
Tkachuk, who previously competed against Draisaitl during his tenure with the Calgary Flames, reignited competitive tension now that he represents the Florida Panthers.
Tkachuk has twice defeated Draisaitl’s Edmonton Oilers in the Stanley Cup Final, further fueling their rivalry.
Despite Germany’s lineup strength, the Americans maintained control and executed efficiently in all three periods.
Late First-Period Goal Sparks Momentum
The breakthrough came with just 8.7 seconds remaining in the first period. Zach Werenski opened the scoring by firing a precise shot from the right circle, capitalizing on a setup from Auston Matthews.
Germany opted to start Maximilian Franzreb in net rather than NHL veteran Philipp Grubauer, mirroring Denmark’s earlier decision to bench Frederik Andersen in favor of Mads Sogaard during their matchup against the U.S.
Meanwhile, American goaltender Connor Helle buyck faced only nine shots in the opening frame, as Germany struggled to generate sustained offensive pressure.
Power Play Efficiency Extends Lead
Germany briefly gained a man advantage opportunity, but even with the extra skater, they failed to establish momentum. Instead, the Americans capitalized on their own power play early in the second period.
Positioned at the crease, Matthews redirected a shot to double the lead to 2-0. Shortly thereafter, Brock Faber increased the margin with a well-placed effort from near the boards around the midpoint of the game.
Third-Period Surge Seals Dominant Win
The U.S. carried a 3-0 lead into the final period and wasted little time extending it. Tage Thompson launched a shot from the blue line early in the third, pushing the advantage to 4-0, with Dylan Larkin earning the assist.
Moments later, Jake Sanderson fired a shot that Matthews redirected near the crease, securing his second goal of the night and third point overall. The 5-1 final underscored Team USA’s dominance throughout the preliminary round.
What This Means For Team USA
Finishing the group stage undefeated at 3-0, Team USA has positioned itself as a serious medal contender at the 2026 Winter Olympics. While Canada holds the top seed due to goal differential, the Americans demonstrated balanced scoring, disciplined defense, and strong goaltending depth.
With a quarterfinal berth secured and extra rest ahead of Wednesday’s matchup, the U.S. enters the knockout stage with confidence, momentum, and championship aspirations firmly intact.
Conclusion
Team USA’s 5-1 victory over Germany completed a flawless 3-0 preliminary run at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
With wins over Latvia, Denmark, and Germany, the Americans secured a quarterfinal bye and showcased both offensive firepower and defensive stability.
Although Canada claimed the top seed on goal differential, the United States remains firmly in contention for Olympic gold as it awaits the winner between Sweden and Latvia.
FAQs
Who will USA play in the Olympic quarterfinals?
The United States will face the winner of the qualification game between Sweden and Latvia.
Why did Canada receive the No. 1 seed over the USA?
Both teams finished with nine points, but Canada earned the higher seed due to a superior goal differential.
How did Auston Matthews perform against Germany?
Matthews recorded two goals and one assist, playing a key role in the 5-1 victory.