Megan Keller's Overtime Goal Wins Hockey Gold for USA

Keller's game-winning goal in OT leads Team USA to thrilling 2-1 victory over Canada at 2024 Olympics

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Megan Keller, a native of Farmington Hills, Michigan, delivered the game-winning goal in overtime to help the United States women's hockey team defeat Canada 2-1 and claim the gold medal at the 2024 Olympics. Keller's impressive overtime performance drew comparisons to a famous NHL game-winner, cementing her status as one of the top American defensive players in women's hockey.

Why it matters

Keller's gold medal success is part of a broader representation by Michigan athletes at the 2024 Paris Olympics, continuing to generate pride and anticipation as they compete at the highest international levels.

The details

Just over four minutes into overtime, Keller executed an impressive move that led to the winning goal. Her performance drew comparisons to Darren McCarthy's famous game-winner in the 1997 Stanley Cup finals against the Philadelphia Flyers. McCarthy himself acknowledged the resemblance and congratulated Keller on her accomplishment.

  • The thrilling victory occurred on February 26, 2024.
  • Keller's game-winning goal in overtime happened just over four minutes into the extra period.

The players

Megan Keller

A native of Farmington Hills, Michigan, Keller is considered one of the greatest American defensive women's hockey players. She was named assistant captain for PWHL Boston in their inaugural season and signed a 3-year contract in 2022.

Darren McCarthy

A former NHL player who scored a famous game-winning goal in the 1997 Stanley Cup finals against the Philadelphia Flyers. He acknowledged the resemblance between his goal and Keller's overtime winner.

Amanda Kessel

A former Team USA teammate of Keller's, Kessel is the manager of minor league operations for the Pittsburgh Penguins of the National Hockey League. She and Keller host the 'Keller and Kess show' podcast together.

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What they’re saying

“Keller's performance drew comparisons to Darren McCarthy's famous game-winner in the 1997 Stanley Cup finals against the Philadelphia Flyers. McCarthy himself acknowledged the resemblance and congratulated Keller on her accomplishment.”

— Darren McCarthy (theconwaybulletin.com)

What’s next

Keller is expected to continue her successful hockey career, potentially leading the PWHL Boston team to more championships and representing the United States in future Olympic competitions.

The takeaway

Megan Keller's overtime goal not only secured gold for Team USA, but also cemented her status as one of the top American defensive players in women's hockey. Her achievement is a source of pride for her hometown of Farmington Hills, Michigan, and a testament to the state's strong representation at the 2024 Paris Olympics.