Canada Dominates Czechia 3-0 in Olympic Hockey Opener
Canada has made a statement on the ice, taking control early against Czechia in their Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic opener. By the end of the second period, the scoreboard read a commanding 3-0 in favor of the Canadians and the momentum has clearly swung their way.
The game’s standout moment came just over six minutes into the second period, when Mitch Marner, now with the Vegas Golden Knights, delivered a slick backhand saucer pass to teammate Mark Stone, weaving past a sliding Czech defender to create a perfect scoring opportunity. Sidney Crosby was in on the play, showing the veteran leadership that continues to anchor this Canadian roster. That goal put Canada ahead 2-0 and gave the team a visible surge in confidence.
The first goal set the tone late in the opening period. San Jose’s 19-year-old Macklin Celebrini tipped in a puck with only six seconds remaining, assisted by Connor McDavid and Cale Makar. Celebrini, a rising star and 2024 first-overall draft pick, has been a force in the NHL this season and his ability to convert in high-pressure moments like this only reinforces why Canada has such depth and firepower.
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Canada didn’t stop there. Bo Horvat extended the lead to 3-0 after a crafty move past two defenders, connecting on a feed from Brad Marchand and finishing with a strong burst down the ice. By that point, Canadian fans watching felt the game slipping firmly out of Czechia’s hands.
Jordon Binnington in goal has been solid, stopping all 22 shots faced, while Czechia’s Lukas Dostal has also seen significant action, saving 20 of 23. Even with Binnington’s composure and skill, the Canadian offense has been relentless, combining youthful energy and veteran experience in a way that few teams can match.
This opening game is more than just a scoreboard victory. Canada now faces Switzerland and France in the preliminary round and topping the group guarantees a direct entry to the quarter-finals. Maintaining this level of intensity will be crucial as the tournament progresses, especially with NHL stars like Crosby chasing a third Olympic gold and McDavid making his first Olympic appearance.
For viewers around the world, this game highlights why Olympic hockey remains one of the most thrilling events on the calendar. Team Canada is sending a clear signal: they are here to compete, dominate and leave nothing to chance.
Stay with us as the action unfolds and keep watching for every goal, save and highlight from the Milano Cortina Games.
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