Germany Falls to USA 5-1 in Olympic Hockey, Faces France in Quarterfinal Qualifier

Milan, Italy – The German men’s ice hockey team suffered a 5-1 defeat to the United States at the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena on Sunday, February 15, 2026, in their final group stage game of the Winter Olympics. Despite a strong start, Germany ultimately succumbed to the offensive power of the American squad, finishing second in Group C. The loss sets up a crucial quarterfinal qualifying match against France on Tuesday.

Game Recap

The USA dominated the contest, outscoring Germany 5-1. Zach Werenski opened the scoring for the Americans late in the first period, with Auston Matthews adding two goals in the second and third periods. Brock Faber and Tage Thompson also found the back of the net for the United States. Tim Stützle scored the lone goal for Germany in the third period, marking his fourth goal of the tournament.

Key Moments

• First Period: Zach Werenski scored with just 8.7 seconds remaining in the period to give the USA a 1-0 lead.
• Second Period: Auston Matthews capitalized on a power play, extending the USA’s lead to 2-0 just 22 seconds into the period. Brock Faber added another goal for the Americans later in the period, making it 3-0.
• Third Period: Tage Thompson and Auston Matthews (his second of the game) increased the USA’s lead to 5-0 before Tim Stützle scored a consolation goal for Germany.

Goaltending

Maximilian Franzreb started in goal for Germany, replacing Philipp Grubauer. Franzreb faced 24 shots, saving 23. Connor Hellebuyck was in net for the USA, stopping 23 of 24 shots.

Lineup Changes

Germany Head Coach Harold Kreis made two changes to the lineup compared to the previous games. Franzreb started in goal, and Parker Tuomie replaced Wojciech Stachowiak in the forward line, joining Marc Michaelis and Dominik Kahun.

What’s Next?

Germany will now face France in a quarterfinal qualifying game on Tuesday. Germany defeated France 6-3 at the 2024 World Championship. France finished the group stage with zero points and a goal difference of 5-20, suggesting Germany will be favored in the matchup. The winner of the Germany-France game will advance to the quarterfinals.

Box Score Highlights

• USA: Auston Matthews (2 goals, 1 assist), Zach Werenski (1 goal), Brock Faber (1 goal), Tage Thompson (1 goal)
• Germany: Tim Stützle (1 goal)

Source

deb-online.de sportingnews.com sportschau.de nbcolympics.com