Hockey at the Milan Cortina Games has reached the exciting playoff stage, where teams are vying for a spot in the semifinals and a chance at Olympic glory. The stakes are high, as the winners will advance while the losers face an early exit or a shot at the bronze medal in the subsequent game.
A unique aspect of these Olympic games is how overtime is handled. Unlike the National Hockey League (NHL), where regular-season games feature a 3-on-3 format for five minutes before a potential shootout, the Olympics implement a different structure. Here, if a game goes into overtime, teams will compete in a 3-on-3 format for a period of 10 minutes. Should the score remain tied after that, a shootout occurs where each squad receives five attempts to secure victory.
However, in the gold medal match, the format shifts back to tradition with a 5-on-5 setup, playing 20-minute periods until a goal is scored. This adds an extra layer of anticipation and excitement for both players and fans alike.
The new overtime rules were put to the test in Wednesday’s thrilling matchup, where Canada edged out Czechia with a 4-3 victory in overtime, thanks to a game-winning goal by Mitch Marner just 1:22 into the extra period. This victory propelled Canada into the semifinals and showcased the intensity and unpredictability of Olympic hockey.
As the tournament progresses, fans can expect to see more nail-biting moments and dramatic finishes, underlining the thrilling nature of Olympic ice hockey. The excitement surrounding the Milan Cortina Games continues to build, as athletes strive for their dreams of Olympic success.