MILAN – Tension gripped the atmosphere when the United States allowed Sweden to tie the score with 91 seconds left in the men’s hockey quarterfinals at the Olympics. That has been the most tension I’ve felt in a hockey game. After an intense fight and extra time, the United States advanced to the semifinals. Quinn Hughes scored in overtime, securing the United States’ 2-1 victory over Sweden, after Mika Zibanejad tied the game in regulation.
After Canada did its part, albeit with a meeting full of drama and emotion, the United States responded to Zibanejad’s goal, keeping alive the possibility of a clash between the North American rivals in the gold medal final on Sunday. Goalie Connor Hellebuyck stopped 28 of the 29 shots he faced, with a clear opportunity for Lucas Raymond during the second period being crucial. The United States will face Slovakia in one of the semifinals on Friday. Previously, Canada, also undefeated, will play against Finland in the other semifinal.Simply, relief.
Quinn Hughes
It’s going to be an extremely difficult test. They’ve been on a roll. They’re competitive. They’re fast. No matter how many superstars you have, the level of desperation is very high. It’s like a Game 7 every night now.
Quinn Hughes
