Team USA goalie Jeremy Swayman allows disastrous half-ice goal in game vs. Denmark

A horrendous goal allowed by Jeremy Swayman was one of the defining moments of an uneven performance from USA Hockey vs. Denmark.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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During the men's ice hockey preliminary match at the 2026 Winter Olympics, Denmark scored an incredible "half-ice" goal to take a 2–1 lead against Team USA. Danish defenseman Nicholas B. Jensen was credited with the goal at 11:16 in the first period. The shot was made from about 95 feet away, just past the center-ice red line, and surprisingly beat U.S. goaltender Jeremy Swayman over his right shoulder.

Why it matters

A victory for the United States would likely guarantee advancement to the quarterfinals, whereas a defeat could require a difficult matchup against Sweden. This goal allowed by Swayman was a significant moment in the game that could impact Team USA's chances of advancing in the tournament.

The details

Swayman is making his Olympic debut today against Denmark following his role in leading the U.S. to a gold medal at the 2025 IIHF World Championships. He is the starting goalie for the Boston Bruins, having signed a significant eight-year, $66 million extension in October 2024. Team USA coach Mike Sullivan selected Swayman to start against Denmark mainly to handle his goaltenders' workload amid a busy schedule of three games in four nights.

  • The goal was scored at 11:16 in the first period.
  • The game took place on Saturday, February 14, 2026.

The players

Jeremy Swayman

The starting goalie for Team USA and the Boston Bruins, Swayman is making his Olympic debut after leading the U.S. to a gold medal at the 2025 IIHF World Championships.

Nicholas B. Jensen

The Danish defenseman who was credited with the incredible "half-ice" goal that beat Swayman.

Mike Sullivan

The head coach of Team USA, who selected Swayman to start against Denmark to manage his goaltenders' workload.

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What’s next

The United States is scheduled to play against Germany on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

The takeaway

This disastrous goal allowed by Swayman highlights the unpredictable nature of Olympic hockey and the challenges Team USA faces in navigating a demanding tournament schedule while managing the workload of their top goaltenders.