Quick Read
- Canada defeated Czechia 5-0 in their 2026 Winter Olympics men’s hockey debut.
- Mark Stone scored Canada’s second goal, doubling the lead in the second period.
- Jordan Binnington earned a 26-save shutout for Canada.
- Nineteen-year-old Macklin Celebrini scored Canada’s first Olympic goal.
- Connor McDavid contributed three assists in the dominant victory.
MILANO (Azat TV) – Canada commenced its 2026 Winter Olympics men’s hockey campaign with a decisive 5-0 victory over Czechia on Thursday, February 12, at the Milano Santogiuliua Arena. The opening game marked a highly anticipated return of National Hockey League (NHL) elite talent to the Olympic stage after more than a decade, with veteran forward Mark Stone’s second-period goal notably doubling Canada’s lead and setting a dominant tone for the tournament debut.
The Canadian squad, featuring 19 returning players from the recent 4 Nations Face Off and seasoned Olympic gold medalists like Sidney Crosby and Drew Doughty, showcased formidable depth against a Czechia team that also boasted 11 current NHL players, including Olympic flag-bearer David Pastrnak. Despite Czechia’s aspirations to return to the Olympic podium, their offensive efforts were consistently thwarted by a robust Canadian defense and stellar goaltending.
Canada’s Dominant Olympic Debut
The scoring began late in the first period when 19-year-old Macklin Celebrini, the youngest player on the Canadian roster, redirected a shot from Cale Makar with just five seconds remaining, giving Canada a 1-0 lead. This early goal provided a crucial momentum shift as both teams had exchanged chances and physical play in a tightly contested opening frame.
The second period saw Canada solidify its control, with Mark Stone extending the lead to 2-0 at 13:13. Mitch Marner delivered an exceptional leaping pass over a Czech defender’s legs, finding Stone who swatted the puck into the net. This pivotal goal, assisted also by Crosby, underscored Canada’s offensive prowess and effectively put Czechia on the defensive. Bo Horvat further widened the gap, scoring a highlight-reel solo goal against Czechia’s goaltender Lukas Dostal, navigating through defenders to make it 3-0.
Binnington’s Shutout and Offensive Showcase
In the final period, Canada continued its relentless attack. Nathan MacKinnon capitalized on a power play just 13 seconds in, finishing a slick passing play from Crosby and Connor McDavid to bring the score to 4-0. McDavid, the Canadian captain, was a central figure throughout the game, registering three assists. Nick Suzuki then completed the scoring with a redirect from a McDavid pass, making it 5-0.
Goaltender Jordan Binnington, whose selection was subject to some pre-tournament discussion, delivered an outstanding performance, making 26 saves to secure a shutout in his first Olympic start for Team Canada. His composure and timely saves, particularly against Czechia’s dangerous top line featuring Pastrnak and Martin Necas, were instrumental in maintaining Canada’s lead. Czechia’s Lukas Dostal, despite stopping 31 shots, faced an overwhelming Canadian offensive barrage.
Looking Ahead for Team Canada
Canada’s comprehensive victory positions them strongly in Group A, and they will next face Switzerland in the preliminary round. Czechia, meanwhile, will look to regroup as they prepare to play France on Friday. The tournament’s opening days have already seen intense competition, highlighting the excitement surrounding the return of NHL stars to the Olympic stage, a development keenly followed by hockey fans worldwide, as reported by FloHockey and The Athletic.
The dominant performance by Canada, particularly the seamless integration of veteran leadership and emerging young talent, suggests a well-coached and highly motivated squad capable of contending for Olympic gold, a testament to the depth of talent available with the return of NHL players.