The highlight of the 2026 Winter Olympics is finally here, as the U.S. men’s hockey team will face its hated rival, Canada, in the gold medal game at the Cortina Games in Milan.
Team USA vs. Canada is the final game of this year’s Olympics, so everyone is hoping for an epic showdown to end the tournament.
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Canada enters the event with a slight edge over the United States and is seeking its first gold medal since Sochi 2021, the last time NHL players competed in the Games.
More: 2026 Winter Olympics medal count, standings to be announced on February 22
Team Canada is a record nine-time Olympic champion, while Team USA is a two-time Olympic champion, its last victory coming in the historic “Miracle on Ice” in 1980.
February 20, 2026; Milan, Italy; American fans cheer during the third period of the men’s ice hockey semifinal against Slovakia at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics at the Santa Giulia Ice Hockey Arena in Milan. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-Imagn Images
While there are high expectations for this game, it is hoped that the players will be able to resolve the scoreline and that the controversial refereeing decisions will not come into play. There were some questionable calls throughout the game so all eyes were on the referee.
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Here’s a look at the full lineup for Sunday’s gold medal game.
— Watch the 2026 Winter Olympics live on Peacock —
Referee for Team USA vs. Team Canada Gold Medal Game
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December 17, 2021; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; NHL referee Gord Dwyer (19) calls a timeout against the Buffalo Sabers during the second quarter of their game against the Pittsburgh Penguins at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
referee
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Chris Rooney (USA)
lineman
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Oni Hautamaki (Finland)
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