U.S. and Canada Clash for Olympic Hockey Gold Amid Rising Stakes for National Pride

As the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan reach their crescendo, an age-old North American rivalry stands front and center: the United States versus Canada for gold in men’s hockey. This showdown is no mere sporting event; it symbolizes a battle of national pride and athletic dominance that resonates far beyond the rink.Why Does This Rivalry Matter to America’s Standing?For decades, Canada has dominated Olympic men’s hockey when NHL players compete — capturing gold in both 2010 and 2014. Meanwhile, the U.S. last claimed top honors during the iconic 1980 “Miracle on Ice,” a moment that still fuels American belief in...