USA Faces Slovakia, Canada Battles Finland in Olympic Hockey Semifinals

Expert predictions and best bets for the men's hockey semifinal matchups at the 2026 Winter Olympics

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The quarterfinal round of the 2026 Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Tournament delivered plenty of excitement, with 3 of the 4 games decided in thrilling overtime fashion. Now, the semifinal matchups are set, as USA takes on Slovakia and Canada battles Finland for a spot in the gold medal game. Our expert previews both semifinal matchups and provides his best bets for the action.

Why it matters

The men's hockey tournament at the Winter Olympics is always one of the most anticipated events, with national pride and a chance at Olympic gold on the line. These semifinal matchups feature some of the top hockey powers in the world, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the tournament.

The details

In the first semifinal, Team USA faces off against Slovakia. The Americans struggled offensively in their quarterfinal win over Sweden, but are expected to bounce back against a Slovakian team that has been undisciplined and spent a lot of time in the penalty box. USA's potent power play should have opportunities to capitalize against Slovakia. The other semifinal pits Canada against Finland. Both teams have received stellar goaltending in the tournament, with Canada's Jordan Binnington and Finland's Juuse Saros putting up impressive numbers. The under 5.5 goals looks like the play in this defensive-minded matchup.

  • The semifinal games will take place on Friday, February 20, 2026.

The players

Auston Matthews

A star forward for Team USA who will look to lead the American offense.

Jordan Binnington

The Canadian goaltender who has been rock solid in net for his team at the Olympics.

Juuse Saros

The Finnish goaltender who has propelled his team to the semifinals with his outstanding play.

Samuel Hlavac

The Slovakian goaltender who will face a tough test against the high-powered American offense.

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What they’re saying

“Binnington has been great, but it helps that Canada's defensive core in front of him is playing at an elite level and making life extremely difficult on their opponents.”

— Connor Grootenhuis, Sports Betting Writer (pickswise.com)

“Given the offensive inconsistency from Finland and the strong goaltending matchup between the pipes, the under is the play here.”

— Connor Grootenhuis, Sports Betting Writer (pickswise.com)

“Look for the Americans to capitalize on their chances.”

— Connor Grootenhuis, Sports Betting Writer (pickswise.com)

What’s next

The winners of the semifinal matchups will advance to the gold medal game on Sunday, February 22, 2026.

The takeaway

These semifinal matchups feature some of the top hockey powers in the world, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the men's hockey tournament at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Fans can expect tight, defensive-minded games, with the potential for offensive fireworks as teams battle for a spot in the gold medal game.