US Routs Latvia 5-1 in Olympic Hockey Opener

Brock Nelson scores twice as American stars shine in dominant win

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The United States opened the Milan Cortina Olympics with a resounding 5-1 victory over Latvia in hockey. Brock Nelson scored twice for the Americans, who also got two assists each from four different players in a dominant performance showcasing some of the country's top NHL talent.

Why it matters

The lopsided win over Latvia is an encouraging start for the U.S. hockey team, which is looking to medal at the Olympics after a disappointing finish four years ago. The depth of American talent on the roster was on full display as they cruised to an easy opening victory.

The details

The U.S. scored five unanswered goals, including two by Brock Nelson, to cruise past Latvia. Four American players - names not provided - recorded two assists each in the win. The U.S. had a pair of goals wiped out by coach's challenges earlier in the game before pulling away.

  • The game was played on Thursday night in Milan, Italy.

The players

Brock Nelson

A forward for the U.S. Olympic hockey team who scored two goals in the win over Latvia.

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The takeaway

The dominant victory over Latvia is an encouraging start for the U.S. hockey team, which is looking to bounce back from a disappointing Olympic finish four years ago and prove it has the depth and talent to compete for a medal in Milan.