The three-time defending world champions began their campaign with a convincing win as Messi found the net three times, moving his World Cup tally to 16 goals across six tournament appearances. The achievement placed him alongside Klose atop the competition’s all-time scoring list.

Following his opening goal, an emotional Messi was seen wiping tears from his eyes before continuing a dominant display that silenced any lingering concerns about a hamstring issue that had limited him in the lead-up to the tournament.

“My tears after the first goal? I’ve had some tough days. It wasn’t related to football,” Messi said after the match. “I thank my teammates, the coaching staff and the delegation for helping me.”

Messi Delivers in World Cup Opener

Messi opened the scoring in the early stages after connecting with a pass from Inter Miami teammate Rodrigo De Paul. He added a second goal from a rebound shortly after halftime before completing his hat trick with a clinical finish before leaving the field to a standing ovation.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni praised his captain’s influence following the victory.

“At a loss for words about Leo. What can I say? He’s incredible,” Scaloni said.

The match was played before a crowd of 69,045 spectators in Kansas City, where Argentina supporters heavily outnumbered their Algerian counterparts.

Historic Milestone Reached Two Decades After Debut

The performance came exactly 20 years after Messi made his World Cup debut against Serbia and Montenegro, a match in which he also scored.

According to the supplied match information, Messi became only the second player to score in five editions of the World Cup. The hat trick was the 61st of his professional career, his 11th for Argentina, and his first in World Cup competition.

The Argentina captain has now scored in five consecutive World Cup matches and appears well positioned to move beyond Klose’s mark as the tournament progresses.

“It makes me very happy to have lived through everything that came my way,” Messi said. “What I’m living through now is the cherry on top.”

Other Stars Shine on Busy World Cup Day

Messi’s performance came on a day that also featured strong displays from other international stars.

Kylian Mbappé scored twice in France’s 3-1 victory over Senegal, while Erling Haaland netted two goals in Norway’s 4-1 win against Iraq.

Haaland reacted to Messi’s display on social media, writing: “Messi is a madman.”

Argentina Relies on Veteran Leader

Messi entered the tournament after dealing with a minor hamstring injury while playing for Inter Miami. However, he showed no visible limitations during Argentina’s opening match.

The appearance also marked the 200th international match of Messi’s career since making his senior debut in 2005.

“Fortunately, I’m doing well, and today we managed to win a tough match,” Messi said. “It’s important to start the tournament with a victory in the first game.”

Argentina’s strong opening result gives the defending champions momentum as they continue their pursuit of another World Cup title, while Messi’s record-tying performance adds another milestone to one of football’s most decorated careers.

Tags: Lionel Messi, Argentina, Algeria, FIFA World Cup, Miroslav Klose, Rodrigo De Paul, Lionel Scaloni, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Kansas City

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The result represented a landmark moment for the Atlantic archipelago of about 500,000 people, which became one of the smallest nations by population ever to qualify for the World Cup. Despite facing one of the tournament favorites and the reigning European champions, Cape Verde produced a disciplined defensive display to earn a point in its debut match.

In the capital city of Praia, supporters gathered at watch parties and along major roads to celebrate the achievement. Fans sang, danced, and embraced as the final whistle confirmed a result few had expected before kickoff.

“I didn’t expect us to be holding our own in such a highly contested and difficult match,” supporter William Gomes said. He praised veteran goalkeeper Vozinha, whose performance helped keep Spain off the scoresheet.

Veteran Goalkeeper Leads Defensive Effort

Cape Verde’s defensive organization proved crucial throughout the match, with 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha emerging as one of the standout performers.

Facing a Spanish side widely viewed as a contender for the World Cup title, Cape Verde resisted sustained pressure and maintained its defensive structure to secure a historic draw.

The performance quickly became a source of national pride and international attention, highlighting the country’s growing presence on football’s biggest stage.

National Pride on Display

The achievement sparked emotional scenes across Praia, where many supporters described the occasion as one of the most significant moments in the nation’s sporting history.

“Cape Verde is only a small country, but today it feels great and important,” resident Vladimir Garcia said. “I don’t even have enough words to express what we’re feeling. We Cape Verdeans are truly blessed.”

Ahead of the match, the Cape Verdean government declared a half-day holiday to allow citizens to follow the national team’s World Cup debut.

Historic Moment Beyond Football

The result also reignited discussion about the expansion of the World Cup from 32 to 48 teams. Critics had argued that the larger tournament could reduce the overall quality of competition, but Cape Verde’s performance against Spain provided an example of how emerging football nations can compete on the global stage.

President José Maria Neves reflected on the broader significance of the occasion, linking the achievement to the country’s development since gaining independence from Portugal 50 years ago.

“If today, 50 years later, we are at the World Cup, we have already proven that we are a viable nation,” Neves said on social media.

He added that the milestone should inspire confidence in the country’s future and its ability to continue building opportunities for its citizens.

Cape Verde’s World Cup journey continues after a debut that delivered both a valuable result and a memorable moment in the nation’s sporting history.

Tags: Cape Verde, Spain, FIFA World Cup, Vozinha, Praia, José Maria Neves, World Cup Debut, International Football

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The ceremony reflected a rare moment of cross-party unity in a polarized political climate. Lawmakers stood and applauded as the team entered, chanting “USA” while the president praised their achievement. Trump also said the women’s national hockey team would be honored at the White House soon, after they declined to attend the address due to scheduling.

The men’s team secured gold with a 2–1 overtime victory over Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics, a result widely seen as one of the program’s most significant achievements in decades.

White House recognition and Medal of Freedom announcement

During the State of the Union address, Trump singled out the players seated in the chamber’s gallery. The ovation lasted roughly two minutes, with members of Congress from both parties standing and applauding.

Trump announced that goaltender Connor Hellebuyck would receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the country’s highest civilian honor. Hellebuyck, who stopped 41 shots in the gold medal game, acknowledged the applause with a hand over his heart.

The White House visit earlier in the day included a meeting in the Oval Office and photographs along the South Portico and West Wing colonnade. Administration aides shared images on social media showing players posing with their medals.

As the team approached the Oval Office, some players briefly stepped into the press office, displaying the gold medals earned in Milan. Trump greeted them individually, praising their performance and describing them as “special champions.”

A historic victory for U.S. men’s hockey

The win marked the first Olympic gold medal in men’s hockey for the United States since the “Miracle on Ice” at the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York. That 1980 victory over the Soviet Union remains one of the most iconic moments in U.S. sports history, and comparisons quickly followed after this year’s triumph.

The 2026 title came after a tightly contested tournament, culminating in the overtime defeat of Canada — a longstanding rival in international hockey. The result was celebrated by fans across the country and drew attention to the sport’s continued global appeal.

Forward Matthew Tkachuk, who has won back-to-back Stanley Cups with the Florida Panthers, described the White House visit as a familiar experience. He had visited previously following NHL championship seasons. For several teammates, however, this marked their first trip to Washington as Olympic champions.

The team traveled from Italy to the United States earlier in the week, arriving first in Miami before heading to Washington. Players were welcomed by fans at the airport and later gathered for team celebrations.

“Our sport just got the biggest stage in the world of sport,” Panthers general manager Bill Zito, who served as an assistant general manager for the Olympic squad, said Tuesday. “That’s wonderful. And we need to celebrate it.”

Women’s team to be honored separately

Trump confirmed that the U.S. women’s hockey team — which also defeated Canada to win gold — would receive a White House invitation in the near future. The women’s team had declined to attend the State of the Union due to timing constraints.

The acknowledgment of both teams underscores the prominence of ice hockey within the Winter Olympics and the broader national sports landscape. Olympic victories traditionally prompt White House visits, regardless of administration, reflecting a longstanding custom of honoring championship teams.

In recent years, such ceremonies have occasionally drawn political attention, but Tuesday’s events focused primarily on athletic achievement. Lawmakers across party lines applauded the players, highlighting a rare moment of consensus during a nationally televised address.

For the athletes, the recognition capped a whirlwind week that included international competition, travel across time zones, and celebrations at home. The gold medal victory in Milan will now stand alongside historic milestones in U.S. hockey history.

Source: AP News – US men’s hockey team feted at State of the Union; Trump says women’s team will be honored ‘soon’

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Held over 17 days across mountain valleys, alpine towns and urban arenas, the Games combined historic venues with a decentralized model that Olympic officials say could influence future editions. The closing ceremony sought to reflect that blend of heritage and modernity, pairing operatic tributes with contemporary Italian pop and dance music.

Declaring the Games closed, International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry praised the local organizing committee for delivering “a new kind of winter games” and setting a “very high standard for the future.” It was the first Winter Olympics overseen by Coventry in her role as IOC president.

A ceremony rooted in Italian culture

Staged inside the Roman-era Verona Arena, roughly midway between the various competition clusters, the 2½-hour ceremony leaned heavily into Italy’s artistic traditions. The production opened with a theatrical nod to lyric opera, long associated with the Arena’s summer festival, before transitioning into modern performances.

Characters from operas such as La Traviata, Aida and Rigoletto were theatrically “unpacked” from mirrored crates placed around the amphitheater. Seventeenth-century musicians performed “Libiamo ne’ lieti calici,” while costumed figures moved from the stage into the piazza outside, mingling with athletes carrying national flags.

Later segments featured ballet dancer Roberto Bolle in an aerial performance staged within a ring of light symbolizing the sun. He descended onto a set designed to resemble the Venetian lagoon, complete with gondolas, dancing to music by Italian singer Joan Thiele. The program culminated with DJ Gabry Ponte energizing athletes in the arena, followed by a final performance from Achille Lauro, who closed the night with the song “Incoscienti Giovani.”

Approximately 12,000 spectators attended the ceremony — a smaller gathering than the opening event in Milan’s San Siro stadium, which drew more than 60,000.

Record medal haul for Italy

A total of 116 medal events were contested across eight sports and 16 disciplines, including the Olympic debut of ski mountaineering. The final medals — in the 50-kilometer mass start cross-country skiing races — were awarded just hours before the closing event.

Host nation Italy achieved its strongest Winter Olympic performance, collecting 30 medals: 10 gold, six silver and 14 bronze. The tally surpassed its previous record of 20 medals set at the 1994 Lillehammer Games.

Giovanni Malagò, president of the Milan Cortina Foundation, credited Italian athletes with uniting the country and contributing significantly to the Games’ overall success. Many of the medalists were present in the arena, wearing white headbands emblazoned with “Italia.”

The Olympic flame, encased in a Venetian glass vessel, was carried into the Arena by Italian gold medalists from the 1994 Lillehammer Winter Games. Illuminated Olympic rings appeared on the stone steps behind the stage as the flame was raised in the center of the amphitheater.

A new geographic model

The Italy-hosted Games spanned approximately 22,000 square kilometers (8,500 square miles), stretching from ice events in Milan to alpine skiing and snowboarding in Valtellina near the Swiss border, biathlon in Anterselva near Austria, and cross-country skiing in Val di Fiemme north of Verona. Sliding sports, curling and women’s downhill competitions took place in Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Organizers had argued that the decentralized format would reduce the need for new construction by relying largely on existing facilities. While that approach posed logistical challenges, IOC officials suggested it may serve as a template for future Winter Games in regions with established winter sports infrastructure.

Following tradition, the Olympic flag was handed to representatives of France, which will host the next Winter Games in 2030. French organizers plan to stage events across Alpine venues and the Mediterranean city of Nice, maintaining a similarly distributed structure. Speedskating is expected to be held either in Italy or the Netherlands, according to organizers.

Paralympics to follow in Verona

The Verona Arena will again serve as the ceremonial focal point when it hosts the opening of the Milan Cortina Paralympic Winter Games on March 6. The Paralympics will run through March 15, using many of the same competition sites.

The extinguishing of the Milan Cortina Olympic cauldrons — an unprecedented dual arrangement — was accompanied by a light show rather than fireworks, in line with local restrictions intended to avoid disturbing animals in and around Verona.

As the lights dimmed and athletes filed out, the ceremony underscored both the scale and the experimentation of Italy’s Winter Olympics. Whether the spread-out model becomes a long-term blueprint for the Olympic movement may depend on future hosts, but for now, the 2026 edition closes as a chapter that combined tradition, geography and adaptation in equal measure.

Source: AP News – Twin Milan and Cortina Olympic cauldrons are extinguished, signaling the end of Winter Games

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For vice-skip Marc Kennedy, the moment carried particular weight. The 44-year-old veteran had found himself at the center of allegations during the round-robin stage, when Sweden’s Oskar Eriksson accused him of a “double touch” — a breach of curling rules involving contact with the stone after release. Kennedy responded with an emotional outburst that drew global attention beyond the rink.

By the time Canada defeated Britain 9–6 in the final, the controversy had become part of the tournament’s narrative — and, for the Canadians, a source of motivation.

Canada’s triumph marks its first Olympic men’s curling gold since the 2014 Sochi Games and reinforces its status as the sport’s most decorated Olympic nation.

Canada edges Britain in final

The Canadian rink, skipped by Brad Jacobs, secured control in the later stages of the match inside Cortina’s historic ice arena. A decisive ninth end, in which Canada scored three, proved pivotal after Britain’s Bruce Mouat missed a freeze attempt that might have limited the damage.

Jacobs described the team’s focus as unwavering despite the distractions. He suggested that being labeled “cheaters” in public commentary had galvanized the squad rather than unsettled it.

Kennedy, who also won Olympic gold at the 2010 Vancouver Games, acknowledged that emotions had run high during the week. He said he stood up for his teammates and accepted responsibility for letting frustration spill into public view.

Canada’s lineup also included Brett Gallant and Ben Hebert, with Tyler Tardi serving as alternate. The gold medal represented Jacobs’ first Olympic appearance since 2014, having missed qualification for the 2018 and 2022 Games.

Britain’s men, meanwhile, remain without Olympic gold since curling’s debut at the inaugural Winter Games in 1924 in Chamonix. Mouat’s all-Scottish team had been consistent throughout the tournament but could not overturn Canada’s late surge.

Double-touch accusations unsettle tournament

The controversy erupted during round-robin play when Sweden’s Eriksson accused Kennedy of making impermissible secondary contact with a stone after delivery. Curling traditionally relies heavily on player self-policing, though umpires monitor specific technical elements.

The allegations prompted heated exchanges and a broader debate within the sport. In response, officials briefly stationed umpires at the hog line to watch for possible infractions before reverting to established procedures in which players largely oversee adherence to rules.

Jacobs later said that the rule in question had been introduced recently and suggested that governing body officials were not fully prepared for the scrutiny it would receive on the Olympic stage. He called for a review process involving players to clarify enforcement and prevent similar disputes in future competitions.

After the incident, Canada lost its next match to Switzerland but regained momentum during the knockout phase.

The episode has highlighted tension between curling’s tradition of sportsmanship and the increasing intensity of elite competition, particularly under Olympic scrutiny. While the sport has long prided itself on mutual respect among competitors, the Milan Cortina Games underscored how quickly disagreements can escalate when medals are at stake.

Canada’s broader Olympic curling record

With the men’s gold secured and the women earning bronze earlier in the day, Canada extended its record as the most successful nation in Olympic curling. The country now has seven gold medals and 14 overall in the sport.

Kennedy’s longevity has drawn admiration from teammates and rivals alike. At 44, he remains among the top players in a discipline that demands technical precision, stamina, and tactical awareness. Alternate Tyler Tardi described Kennedy as one of the world’s best over two decades and credited his experience for helping the team navigate a difficult week.

Switzerland defeated Norway to claim bronze in the men’s event.

Canadian women earn bronze

Earlier Saturday, Canada’s women’s team, skipped by Rachel Homan, defeated the United States 10–7 to take bronze. The victory denied the American women their first Olympic curling medal.

Homan’s rink had struggled early in round-robin play, starting 1–3 before regaining form. She said the team’s resilience defined its tournament, noting that players drew closer together during challenging moments.

Sweden and Switzerland were scheduled to meet in the women’s gold medal match on Sunday.

A victory shaped by pressure

Canada’s men leave Cortina with gold medals and a tournament that may be remembered as much for debate as for results. In the aftermath, Jacobs said he hoped that critics would remember the image of the team celebrating on the podium.

For Kennedy, the triumph capped a career already defined by Olympic success. It also brought closure to a week in which accusations of cheating overshadowed competition, if only briefly.

In a sport that values quiet precision, the Milan Cortina men’s final offered a reminder that even curling is not immune to controversy — or to redemption.

Source: AP News – Canada’s curling skip tells cheating accusers to get Olympic celebration ‘burned into your brain’

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Elite skating blends artistry with risk, offering lessons for everyday athletes

Behind the elegance of Olympic figure skating lies a constant negotiation with injury, recovery and mental strain. Physicians and performance experts working with Team USA say the lessons extend beyond elite competition — and speak to how bodies adapt, compensate and sometimes break under pressure.

When viewers watch Olympic figure skating, the first impression is often grace. Athletes glide across ice with balletic precision, landing jumps that appear effortless and lifting partners overhead while smiling. What is less visible is the physical toll of training for a sport that blends explosive power with high-impact landings on a surface that does not forgive mistakes.

Medical staff embedded with U.S. Figure Skating describe elite competition as a process of managing, rather than eliminating, injury. Gretchen Mohney, director of medical and performance services for U.S. Figure Skating, recently told the Associated Press that “no athlete at this level is 100% fully healthy.” The task, she said, is to identify what is beginning to break down and intervene before it worsens.

That framework — constant monitoring, early response, and adaptation — offers insight not only into Olympic preparation, but also into how the human body handles repeated stress.

Injury Is Managed, Not Avoided

Elite figure skating has evolved dramatically in the past two decades. The sport’s technical demands have escalated, with more skaters attempting quadruple jumps and complex lifts. Each landing generates significant force through the ankles, knees and hips. On hard ice, that force has nowhere to dissipate.

Dr. Fred Workman, a longtime team physician for U.S. Figure Skating, has noted a rise in concussions as performance difficulty increases. Falls at high velocity can lead to head impacts, and while protective measures exist, the risk cannot be eliminated entirely.

Other common injuries reflect the sport’s structure: lacerations from skate blades, overuse injuries in the lower extremities, and shoulder strain in pairs skating where men lift partners overhead while rotating. “The hard ice always wins,” Workman has observed — a blunt reminder that physics governs outcomes regardless of training level.

For elite skaters, prolonged rest is rarely an option in the lead-up to major competitions. Instead, medical teams aim to modify training loads, adjust equipment, or introduce targeted therapies to keep athletes functional while minimizing additional harm. This approach reflects a broader principle in sports medicine: optimal performance often depends on carefully calibrated compromise.

Early Warning Signs and Load Management

Mohney has outlined several red flags that medical staff monitor closely — and they mirror guidance commonly given to recreational athletes.

First, acute injuries require immediate attention. The traditional “play through it” mentality has largely been replaced in professional sports by a more preventive model. Research across athletic disciplines suggests that untreated acute injuries can cascade into chronic problems, especially when athletes alter movement patterns to avoid pain.

Second, chronic stress injuries demand modification rather than neglect. In skating, even small adjustments — such as adding padding inside boots to reduce friction — can prevent minor irritations from becoming performance-limiting injuries.

Third, loss of mobility can trigger compensation elsewhere in the body. When flexibility declines, joints and muscles adapt in ways that redistribute force. In skating, diminished hip mobility might affect jump rotation; in recreational runners, similar patterns can lead to knee or back pain. The principle is biomechanical rather than sport-specific.

Finally, overuse injuries remain pervasive. Figure skaters train year-round, repeating movements such as layback spins that involve sustained spinal extension. Without variation in intensity and volume, cumulative strain builds. Sports science research widely supports periodization — structured variation in workload — as a means of reducing injury risk while maintaining conditioning.

For weekend athletes, these concepts are not abstract. They suggest that recovery, flexibility work and training diversity are not optional extras but core components of sustainable fitness.

Concussions and the Expanding Conversation

The increase in concussion awareness across sports has shaped figure skating as well. While skating is not a contact sport, high-speed falls can produce similar neurological risks.

Recent years have seen broader adoption of concussion protocols in Olympic sports, reflecting consensus guidelines developed in international sports medicine. These emphasize immediate removal from activity, graduated return-to-play processes, and monitoring for cognitive symptoms.

The experience of skaters who have temporarily stepped away after head injuries underscores how recovery timelines vary. Age, history of prior concussions and overall health influence healing. The uncertainty inherent in brain injury management reinforces a key theme: performance gains in elite sport often carry parallel risk calculations.

Mental Resilience in a Judged Sport

Figure skating’s injury profile intersects with another defining feature: it is a judged sport. Performance evaluation depends not only on technical execution but also on interpretation and presentation. Scores may not always align with athletes’ expectations.

Workman has described part of his role as holistic, extending beyond physical diagnosis to stress management. Psychological resilience is not separate from physical recovery; it influences sleep, focus and risk-taking decisions during performance.

Athletes such as Ilia Malinin have spoken publicly about feeling overwhelmed under Olympic pressure. That acknowledgment reflects a broader cultural shift in elite sport, where mental health discussions have become more open since high-profile cases in gymnastics and tennis drew global attention.

Sports psychologists often emphasize reframing setbacks as part of development rather than as definitive failures. This perspective aligns with research suggesting that adaptive coping strategies correlate with sustained performance at elite levels.

Cross-Training the Athlete — and the Person

Both Mohney and Workman emphasize training variation. Cross-training distributes stress across muscle groups and movement patterns, potentially reducing repetitive strain. Off-ice conditioning — strength work, balance training, cardiovascular conditioning — supports stability and shock absorption during jumps.

But Workman also frames cross-training more broadly. Diversifying interests beyond sport, he argues, supports long-term well-being. Competitive careers are finite. The skills developed in sport — discipline, resilience, teamwork — have value beyond medals.

This wider lens reflects findings in athlete development research, which suggests that identity diversification can buffer against the psychological effects of injury or retirement. When sport is the sole source of self-definition, disruptions can be destabilizing.

What It Means for Everyday Athletes

The training environments of Olympians differ sharply from those of recreational athletes. They have immediate access to physicians, physical therapists and athletic trainers. Their recovery protocols are individualized and data-driven.

Yet the underlying principles are transferable:

• Prompt attention to acute injuries reduces long-term damage.

• Varying training intensity helps prevent overuse.

• Flexibility and mobility maintenance support proper biomechanics.

• Mental stress management influences physical outcomes.

These are not new ideas. They align with established guidance from sports medicine bodies and public health institutions. What Olympic skating illustrates is how visible performance often obscures invisible maintenance.

In high-performance sport, health and injury coexist in a dynamic balance. Athletes do not wait for perfect conditions; they manage imperfections strategically. That reality may challenge the romantic image of effortless grace, but it offers a more realistic understanding of human capability.

The elegance seen on Olympic ice is built not only on artistry but also on adaptation. And adaptation, as both physicians and athletes acknowledge, requires respect for the body’s limits — even when chasing extraordinary feats.

Source: AP News – Olympic figure skaters offer wellness tips for weekend athletes. The ‘hard ice always wins’

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The Canadians, who had not trailed during group play, found themselves down by two goals early in the second period. Yet there was little sign of anxiety on the bench. Instead, Canada methodically increased pressure, outshooting Finland 31-8 over the final two periods and overturning the deficit in the closing stages.

The result moves Canada into Sunday’s gold-medal game and preserves the possibility of a North American final should the United States advance from the other semifinal.

MacKinnon delivers in final minute

With 35.2 seconds remaining in regulation, MacKinnon redirected a cross-ice pass from Connor McDavid on the power play, finding a narrow opening short side past Finnish goaltender Juuse Saros. The play survived a video review after Finland challenged for offside, confirming Canada’s late breakthrough.

“It was a five-man effort,” MacKinnon said, crediting McDavid’s pass and the traffic created in front of the net.

McDavid, wearing the captain’s “C” in the absence of the injured Sidney Crosby, assisted on two goals. His performance set a record for the most points by an NHL player at a single Olympic tournament, with 13.

Canada coach Jon Cooper said the team showed composure despite the early setback. “You could definitely feel the sense of calm,” McDavid added. “We understood we were in a tough spot, and we had to find a way to get out of it.”

Momentum turns after Finland’s early control

Finland opened the scoring and extended its lead when Erik Haula netted a shorthanded goal early in the second period. The Finnish side, known for its structured defensive system, slowed Canada’s transition game and limited space in the neutral zone during the opening stages.

But the momentum began to shift late in the second period when Sam Reinhart deflected a shot from Cale Makar past Saros with 4:40 remaining. The goal cut the deficit to 2-1 and injected urgency into Canada’s attack.

Shea Theodore tied the game midway through the third period with a long-range effort through traffic, following a net-front scramble involving Brad Marchand and Haula. From there, the pressure rarely relented.

Canada’s ability to sustain offensive zone time was evident in the shot totals. Finland managed only nine shots combined across the second and third periods, compared to Canada’s sustained barrage. While Saros kept Finland within reach, the weight of chances eventually proved decisive.

Leadership and depth on display

Canada’s comeback came without Crosby, who left Wednesday’s quarterfinal with an apparent right knee injury. Cooper said a decision on Crosby’s availability for the final would be made closer to game time.

Even without their long-time captain, Canada leaned on experience and depth. McDavid assumed leadership responsibilities, while younger players also played prominent roles.

Nineteen-year-old Macklin Celebrini, the youngest player on Canada’s roster, registered eight shots on goal, nearly matching Finland’s total over the final two periods combined. His willingness to shoot disrupted Finland’s defensive structure and created second-chance opportunities.

“We’re a deep team with leaders all up and down the lineup,” McDavid said. “It doesn’t matter who’s wearing the ‘C.’ Everybody can play a big role.”

The semifinal marked the second consecutive game in which Canada rallied from behind, having also faced adversity in the quarterfinals against Czechia. Players said those earlier tests may have contributed to the composed response against Finland.

Gold-medal matchup awaits

The victory sets up Canada’s appearance in Sunday’s gold-medal game, where it could face the United States if the Americans overcome Slovakia in the second semifinal.

An all-North American final would echo last year’s 4 Nations Face-Off championship meeting between Canada and the United States, renewing one of international hockey’s most closely watched rivalries. However, Canada’s focus remains on recovery and preparation after a physically demanding semifinal.

For Finland, the defeat ends a disciplined tournament run highlighted by structured team defense and strong goaltending. Saros, in particular, delivered a resilient performance despite the late outcome.

For Canada, the message after Friday’s rally was clear: patience and depth remain its defining strengths. Against an opponent built on structure and precision, Canada relied on composure and high-end execution at critical moments — enough to extend its pursuit of Olympic gold.

Source: AP News – Nathan MacKinnon scores late as Canada beats Finland to reach the Olympic gold-medal game

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With a total of 226.79 points, Liu secured the Olympic women’s singles title at the Milan-Cortina Winter Games, becoming the first American woman in 24 years to win figure skating gold. The victory ended a drought stretching back to the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics, when Sarah Hughes claimed the top podium spot.

For Liu, the achievement marked not only a personal triumph but also a milestone for U.S. figure skating.

Her path to Olympic gold has been anything but linear. Once hailed as a prodigy and the youngest U.S. champion at age 13, Liu stepped away from the sport after finishing sixth at the Beijing Olympics. Burned out and searching for balance, she retired, spending time traveling and enrolling at the University of California, Los Angeles, where she studied psychology.

That pause reshaped her relationship with skating. When she eventually returned to competition, it was on her own terms — with renewed perspective and a calmer approach to expectations. “Everything in general has led me to this point,” Liu said after her win.

A performance under pressure

Liu skated last among the contenders and appeared at ease even during warmups, smiling and waving toward friends and family in the stands. Her free skate, set to Donna Summer’s rendition of “MacArthur Park,” opened with a confident triple flip and built momentum throughout. She completed her elements cleanly, finishing with composure as the music faded and the crowd rose in applause.

Her score held firm as competitors attempted to surpass it.

Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto, a three-time world champion and bronze medalist at the Beijing Olympics, delivered a strong performance but finished second with 224.90 points. Seventeen-year-old Ami Nakai took bronze, underscoring Japan’s continued strength in women’s skating.

Sakamoto, who has indicated this will be her final competitive season, expressed disappointment afterward, saying she had hoped to end her Olympic career with gold.

The United States also saw a strong showing from Amber Glenn, who rebounded from a difficult short program to deliver a season-best free skate. Her total of 214.91 points briefly placed her in the leader’s chair and ultimately secured a fifth-place finish. Glenn later reflected on Liu’s comeback story, noting the broader message it could send about mental health and stepping back when needed.

“It’s OK to take time,” Glenn said.

A broader context for U.S. figure skating

Liu’s victory is significant in historical terms. Since Hughes’ win in 2002, American women had struggled to reclaim Olympic dominance in a discipline long marked by intense international competition. The sport has evolved technically and artistically over the past two decades, with rising standards for jump difficulty and program components.

Liu herself contributed to that evolution. Before her temporary retirement, she became known for attempting technically ambitious elements at a young age. Her return, however, has emphasized balance as much as difficulty.

Earlier in the Milan-Cortina Games, Liu and Glenn helped the United States secure gold in the team event, giving Liu two gold medals at a single Olympics. The dual success reinforces a resurgence for American figure skating on the global stage.

Russian skater Adeliia Petrosian, competing as a neutral athlete, attempted the only quadruple jump of the women’s competition but fell on her quad toe loop. Though she skated cleanly otherwise, the lost points left her narrowly behind Glenn. Japan’s Mone Chiba briefly overtook Glenn before Liu’s decisive skate closed the competition.

Growth beyond medals

Liu’s gold medal, draped over a glittering dress accented with gold sequins, symbolized the culmination of years marked by early acclaim, pressure and self-discovery. Her hairstyle — streaked with gold meant to resemble tree rings — reflected a theme of growth she has spoken about openly.

After retiring, Liu climbed to the base camp of Mount Everest and explored interests outside skating. She has described that period as formative, helping her reconnect with the sport from a healthier perspective.

“I don’t need this,” Liu said of the medal. “What I needed was the stage.”

Her words suggested that the performance itself — and the ability to skate freely — carried as much weight as the podium finish. Even had the jumps gone differently, she said, she would have considered the moment meaningful.

For U.S. figure skating, however, the result is clear. The Olympic gold ends a 24-year wait and signals the arrival of a champion who has already experienced both the heights of early success and the complexities of stepping away.

In Milan, Alysa Liu returned not just to competition, but to the top of it.

Source: AP News – Alysa Liu dazzles to win figure skating gold, ending a 24-year Olympic drought for US women

The post Alysa Liu Wins Olympic Figure Skating Gold, Ending 24-Year Drought for U.S. Women appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

The unexpected visitor did not disrupt the skiers, who maintained their pace while spectators cheered. Venue officials quickly intervened once the dog crossed the finish line. Organizers later confirmed that the animal had escaped from a nearby owner during a routine walk.

The incident occurred on a day already marked by Olympic history. On the same course, Norwegian skier Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo secured his record 10th Olympic gold medal and his fifth of the Milan-Cortina Games, adding another milestone to his decorated career.

Cross-Country Racing Continues Despite Canine Distraction

The dog’s brief cameo highlighted the unpredictable nature of outdoor winter sports, where even carefully secured courses can encounter unplanned interruptions. Officials emphasized that safety measures remained in place and that no athletes were harmed or impeded.

Fan Reactions and Lighthearted Moment

Spectators captured the playful interruption on social media, with many praising the skiers’ composure. While the dog’s dash across the finish line added levity to the competition, organizers reaffirmed the importance of course security for the remainder of the Games.

The Milan-Cortina Olympics continue to showcase both athletic excellence and memorable, unscripted moments that remind fans of the lighter side of sport.

Source: AP News – Loose dog makes Olympic cameo on the cross-country ski course at the Milan Cortina Games

The post Dog Makes Unexpected Appearance During Milan-Cortina Olympic Cross-Country Event appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

McGrath, born in Vermont and raised in Norway, entered the final run with a strong lead in his specialty event. But after straddling a gate, he fell out of medal contention as Switzerland’s Loic Meillard secured gold. The scene quickly drew attention as McGrath tossed his ski poles over the course’s safety netting and made his way through the surrounding snow to the edge of nearby woods.

“I thought I would get some peace and quiet, which I didn’t,” McGrath later said, describing photographers and security finding him in the woods. “I just needed some time for myself.”

Personal Loss Shadows Olympic Effort

The Norwegian’s emotional reaction comes amid personal grief. McGrath has been competing while mourning the recent loss of his grandfather, who died on the day of the opening ceremony. He wore a commemorative armband throughout the Games in tribute.

Teammate Timon Haugan, who finished fourth in Monday’s race, noted the strain. “What he’s gone through these last 10, 12 days, it’s been really tough,” Haugan said. “He started to do better and today he’s going through … we need to really back him up.”

McGrath acknowledged the challenge of competing under such circumstances. “I skied so great, and I still couldn’t get it done. So that’s what really hurts,” he said.

Teammates and Competitors Offer Perspective

Fellow Norwegian and bronze medalist Henrik Kristoffersen related to the disappointment. Kristoffersen, who led the slalom at the 2018 Pyeongchang Games only to ski out in his second run, emphasized that such setbacks are part of competitive skiing.

“In the end, it’s another ski race. It’s not going to make or break Atle’s career,” Kristoffersen said. “That’s how it goes sometimes. I’ve been in this exact same position, and done the same thing. And yes, it hurts. But it is what it is.”

Meillard, the gold medalist, acknowledged the sport’s unpredictable nature. “The beauty of slalom is that when it works out it’s beautiful. I was definitely sorry for him, but at the end, all the times he won when I skied out — that’s part of the game,” he said.

Moving Forward

McGrath returned from the woods to the finish area but refrained from speaking immediately. He later reflected on the support around him and the need to process the experience with loved ones nearby.

“I spent my time in the woods. So now I’m going to spend time with the people I love, and that’s all I need,” he said. “I think I need quite a bit of time to process this, and it’s going to be extremely tough. But at least I’m surrounded by great people who love me and who I love.”

The incident highlights both the emotional intensity of Olympic competition and the human pressures behind elite performance, illustrating that personal resilience is often tested as fiercely as physical skill on the world stage.

Source: AP News – Olympic meltdown: Norway’s Atle Lie McGrath loses gold medal in slalom, then control of emotions

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