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Sweden Defeats U.S. 5-4 in Thrilling Olympic Hockey Game

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, February 18th 2026 at 11:57 GMT by The New York Times
      Locales: UNITED STATES, SWEDEN, ITALY

GLENDALE, Ariz. -- In a back-and-forth contest filled with offensive fireworks, Sweden defeated the United States 5-4 in a crucial Group B matchup at the 2026 Winter Olympics. The game, played at Gila Arena in Glendale, was a showcase of elite hockey talent and a preview of potential medal contenders. This loss significantly complicates the U.S. team's path to the playoff round, following their surprising opening-game defeat to Slovakia.

Sweden entered the game as favorites, consistently ranked among the top hockey nations globally. Their roster boasts a blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars, including captain Erik Karlsson and offensive dynamo Elias Pettersson. The Americans, meanwhile, were looking to rebound from a disappointing start to the tournament, hoping to leverage their own star power in players like Johnny Gaudreau, Quinn Hughes, and Trevor Zegras.

The game began at a blistering pace. William Karlsson opened the scoring for Sweden at the 19:37 mark of the first period, capitalizing on a U.S. defensive lapse. However, the Americans responded swiftly, with Gaudreau netting a tying goal at 12:45. The period ended with Sweden back on top, thanks to a goal by Alexander Nylander at 5:22, leaving the score 2-1 in favor of the Tre Kronor.

The second period mirrored the intensity of the first. Zegras showcased his skill, leveling the score at 2-2 with a creative finish at 17:10. But Pettersson answered for Sweden just over seven minutes later, restoring their one-goal lead. The period's seesaw action continued as Luke Hughes, demonstrating the offensive capabilities that have made him a rising star, blasted a shot past Jarvinen to tie the game at 3-3 with under three minutes remaining in the middle frame.

The third period proved to be a heart-stopping affair. Karlsson scored his second goal of the game at 15:25, putting Sweden ahead 4-3. The U.S. refused to yield, with Quinn Hughes scoring a crucial goal at 8:12, tying the game once again. However, with just 1:54 remaining in regulation, Rasmus Dahlin delivered the decisive blow, firing a shot from the point that eluded Primeau and sealed the victory for Sweden.

The final score of 5-4 doesn't fully capture the relentless back-and-forth nature of the game. Both teams traded scoring chances throughout, and both goaltenders - Primeau for the U.S. and Jarvinen for Sweden - were forced to make several key saves. The U.S. team's offensive prowess was on full display, but defensive breakdowns proved costly. Sweden's ability to capitalize on American mistakes was the difference in the contest.

Key Takeaways:

• U.S. Defensive Concerns: The Americans have conceded a significant number of goals in their first two games, raising concerns about their defensive structure. Improvements will be crucial if they hope to advance in the tournament. The pairing of Hughes and McAvoy, while talented, were often caught out of position.
• Swedish Offensive Depth: Sweden's victory highlighted their impressive offensive depth. With Karlsson, Pettersson, and Nylander leading the charge, they pose a constant threat to opposing defenses.
• Primeau Under Pressure: Cayden Primeau faced a barrage of shots and, while not necessarily at fault for all the goals, looked uncomfortable at times. The U.S. coaching staff may consider giving another goaltender an opportunity.
• Playoff Implications: The loss to Sweden puts the U.S. in a precarious position. They will need to win their remaining group games, and potentially rely on tiebreakers, to secure a spot in the playoff round.

What's Next?

The United States will face Kazakhstan in their next group stage game, a match they will be heavily favored to win. Sweden will look to continue their winning ways against Slovakia. The results of these games will significantly impact the Group B standings and the fate of both teams in the tournament.