USA Edges Sweden in Olympic Quarterfinal, Overtime Format Draws Criticism

MILAN – The United States men’s hockey team advanced to the semifinal round of the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics with a 2-1 overtime victory against Sweden on Wednesday at Santagiulia Arena . The win came after a tightly contested match that highlighted concerns about the current three-on-three overtime format used in Olympic hockey.

Hughes Secures Victory for Team USA

Quinn Hughes scored the game-winning goal in overtime, securing the victory for the U.S. And a semifinal matchup against Slovakia on Friday . His brother, Jack Hughes, praised the play as a “massive goal” and a “massive moment” for the team . Dylan Larkin had previously scored for the United States in regulation.

Landeskog Voices Concerns Over Overtime Format

Following the defeat, Sweden’s captain, Gabriel Landeskog, publicly criticized the three-on-three overtime format, calling it “scary” and suggesting it shouldn’t be used to decide Olympic finals . He expressed a preference for a five-on-five format, stating his belief that an Olympic final should not be decided in such a random manner .

Landeskog referenced the 2010 Olympic final between Canada and the United States, noting that game was not played in a three-on-three format . He acknowledged that he doesn’t make the rules, comparing the situation to the Stanley Cup’s overtime format.

Differing Overtime Rules Throughout the Tournament

The overtime rules vary throughout the Olympic tournament. From the round of 16 to the semi-finals, and including the bronze medal match, overtime periods are limited to 10 minutes. However, the Olympic final will feature a 20-minute overtime period, still played in a three-on-three format .

Hallam Open to Reviewing Overtime Format

Sweden’s national team captain, Sam Hallam, acknowledged that three-on-three overtime in the group stage is acceptable but suggested the format should be reviewed for the playoff rounds . However, Hallam emphasized that the format was not being used as an excuse for the team’s loss.

USA Continues Olympic Run

With the victory over Sweden, the United States remains unbeaten in the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics and advances to the semifinal round . They previously secured a 6-3 win against Denmark and will now face Slovakia in their next game.