MILAN — When the U.S. allowed a tying goal to Sweden with just 91 seconds remaining in a men’s hockey quarterfinal at the Olympics, even the most experienced players felt the tension rise.
“That’s the most nervous I’ve ever been during a hockey game,” Dylan Larkin remarked.
After enduring a tense match and some extra time, the U.S. is advancing to the semifinals.
Quinn Hughes netted the game-winner in overtime, allowing the U.S. to triumph over Sweden 2-1 after Mika Zibanejad had equalized late in the third period.
“It was just a wave of relief,” Hughes said.
With Canada pulling through after a dramatic encounter, the U.S. remained in contention for a potential gold medal showdown against their North American rivals on Sunday.
Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck stopped 28 of the 29 shots he faced, with one crucial save against Lucas Raymond during the second period.
The U.S. will take on Slovakia in the semifinals on Friday. Prior to that, unbeaten Canada will face Finland in the other matchup.
“This is going to be an incredibly tough challenge,” Hughes said regarding Slovakia. “They’ve been on a roll. They’re competitive and quick. Regardless of the superstars in the game, the level of desperation is sky-high. It’s like Game 7 every night now.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
