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Milan Today
By the People, for the People
US men's hockey overcomes slow start to beat Latvia in 2026 Olympics opener
The Americans beat Latvia 5-1 in their first match of the Olympic Games, but it was a nervy start for Team USA.
Published on Feb. 12, 2026
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The US men's hockey team had a slow start against Latvia in their 2026 Olympic opener, with the game tied 1-1 after the first period. But the Americans found their footing in the second period, scoring three unanswered goals to take a 4-1 lead. Brock Nelson and Jack Hughes led the way for the US, with Nelson scoring twice. Tage Thompson and Auston Matthews also found the back of the net as the US pulled away for a 5-1 victory.
Why it matters
The US men's hockey team entered the 2026 Olympics with high expectations, and this opening game was an important first test. While they ultimately prevailed, the slow start raised some concerns about the team's readiness and cohesion. As the tournament progresses, the Americans will need to find a way to start games stronger in order to make a deep run and compete for the gold medal.
The details
The US struggled early, with Latvia's intensity and physicality catching them off guard. A pair of US goals were wiped off the board due to successful challenges by Latvia. But Brock Nelson broke the 1-1 tie in the second period, sparking the Americans. Tage Thompson and Jack Hughes added goals to make it 4-1 by the end of the second. Auston Matthews scored in the third period to provide the final 5-1 margin. The US defense, which had a shaky first period, settled down as the game went on.
- The game was played on Thursday, February 12, 2026.
- The US and Latvia were tied 1-1 after the first period.
- Brock Nelson scored the go-ahead goal for the US at 10:38 of the second period.
- The US led 4-1 by the end of the second period.
- Auston Matthews scored the US's fifth goal in the third period.
The players
Brock Nelson
A forward for the US men's hockey team who scored two goals in the game, including the go-ahead goal in the second period.
Jack Hughes
A forward for the US men's hockey team who assisted on two of the US goals.
Tage Thompson
A forward for the US men's hockey team who scored a power-play goal to make it 3-1 in the second period.
Auston Matthews
A forward for the US men's hockey team who scored the final goal of the game in the third period.
Elvis Merzlikins
The starting goaltender for Latvia who was replaced to start the third period.
What’s next
The US men's hockey team will look to build on this win as they continue their Olympic tournament. Their next game is scheduled for February 14, 2026.
The takeaway
While the US men's hockey team struggled early against Latvia, they were able to find their footing and pull away for a convincing 5-1 victory. This game highlighted the team's depth and resilience, and if they can continue to improve as the tournament goes on, they will be a force to be reckoned with in the pursuit of the gold medal.
