Canada Dominates Olympic Hockey, Advances to Quarterfinals

MILAN, Italy – Canada’s men’s hockey team continued its dominant run at the 2026 Winter Olympics, securing a decisive 10-2 victory over France on Sunday and advancing to the quarterfinals. The win ensures Canada finishes round-robin play unbeaten, outscoring opponents by a total of 17 goals.

Crosby and McDavid Lead the Charge

Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid each contributed a goal and two assists in the win against France. McDavid currently leads all scorers in Milan with nine points in his first nine periods, marking a strong Olympic debut. Crosby, at 38, continues to impress as he aims for a third Olympic gold medal.

“We did what we came to do,” said McDavid. “We came to win a hockey game and continue to secure better.”

Crosby’s performance has been lauded by teammates, with McDavid noting, “Sid’s playing great. Everybody’s playing really, really well. The team’s playing well. We’re in a excellent place right now.”

Wilson’s Stand and Team Unity

The game also featured a physical element, with Tom Wilson engaging in a fight after a forearm to the face of Nathan MacKinnon. While Wilson was ejected under international rules, his actions were praised by teammates as a demonstration of loyalty and protection.

“He’s going to stick up for his guys,” said forward Sam Bennett. “He’s a leader on this team and he’s a guy that’s going to protect our guys and do whatever it takes for our team.”

Quarterfinal Outlook and U.S. Position

Canada’s strong performance has solidified its position as a top contender. The U.S. Team faces a challenging scenario to overtake Canada for the No. 1 seed, needing to defeat Germany by a margin of 10 or more goals on Sunday night. A smaller victory would place them second and on a collision course with Sweden in the quarterfinals.

Sweden is considered a formidable opponent, but Canada has demonstrated the skill and ability to overcome any challenge in the tournament.

Rising Star Celebrini Shines

Macklin Celebrini, Canada’s youngest player at 19, continues to make a significant impact, scoring on a penalty shot and during a power play against France, bringing his goal total to four in three games.

Other Olympic Results

In other games on Sunday:

• Denmark defeated Latvia 4-2, with Frederik Andersen making 33 saves. This win secured Denmark’s advancement and left Latvia to face Sweden in the qualification round.
• Switzerland defeated Czechia 4-3 in overtime, earning an easy path to the quarterfinals. Dean Kukan scored the overtime winner. The Swiss team rallied around the absence of injured winger Kevin Fiala.

Canada will await the winner of the 8/9 game between Czechia and Denmark in the quarterfinals on Wednesday.