Brock Nelson's Double Goal Sparks USA's Olympic Win

Accomplished NHL player scores twice to lead Team USA to 5-1 victory over Latvia in Olympic opener

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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In the opening game of the 2026 Winter Olympics, Brock Nelson scored twice to help the United States secure a commanding 5-1 victory over Latvia in Grand Forks. The 34-year-old NHL player for the Colorado Avalanche found the back of the net in the second period, overcoming an eventful first period that included a disallowed assist, a disallowed goal, and a shot that hit the post. Additional goals from Brady Tkachuk, Tage Thompson, and Auston Matthews rounded out the United States' win.

Why it matters

Nelson's performance and the team's strong start position them well for advancing in the Olympic tournament. As a veteran player with a strong family legacy in Olympic hockey, Nelson's contributions on both offense and defense were crucial in the opening match.

The details

Nelson's breakthrough came at 10:38 of the second period when he received a pass from Jack Hughes, executed a deceptive move on Latvia's goalie Elvis Merzlikins, and scored with a backhand shot. He added a second goal in the closing seconds of the same period, completing a seamless passing sequence involving Hughes, Matthew Tkachuk, and Quinn Hughes.

  • The opening game of the 2026 Winter Olympics took place on February 13, 2026.
  • Nelson scored his first goal at 10:38 of the second period.
  • Nelson scored his second goal in the closing seconds of the second period.

The players

Brock Nelson

A 34-year-old NHL player for the Colorado Avalanche who is representing the U.S. at the Olympics for the first time after the NHL did not send players to the 2018 and 2022 Games. He comes from a family with a strong legacy in Olympic hockey, as his grandfather, great uncle, and uncle have all won Olympic medals.

Jack Hughes

An American ice hockey player who assisted on one of Brock Nelson's goals.

Matthew Tkachuk

An American ice hockey player who assisted on one of Brock Nelson's goals.

Quinn Hughes

An American ice hockey player who assisted on one of Brock Nelson's goals.

Brady Tkachuk

An American ice hockey player who scored a goal for Team USA.

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What’s next

Team USA's next matches are scheduled against Denmark and Germany, with the group winner earning a quarterfinal bye.

The takeaway

Brock Nelson's two-goal performance and the team's strong overall play in the opening game position Team USA well for advancing in the Olympic tournament. As a veteran player with a family legacy in Olympic hockey, Nelson's contributions on both offense and defense were crucial in the commanding 5-1 victory over Latvia.