Marner's OT Goal Propels Canada to Olympic Semifinals Amid Crosby Injury Scare
Milan, Wednesday, 18 February 2026.
Mitch Marner’s overtime goal secured Canada’s spot in the Olympic semifinals with a 4-3 victory over Czechia on February 17, 2026, though the win was overshadowed by Sidney Crosby’s injury.
A Narrow Escape in Milan
The dramatic finish at the Milano Cortina Games saw Canada rally from a late deficit to avoid what would have been a stunning quarterfinal exit [1]. While Canada controlled the possession game, outshooting Czechia significantly with 41 shots to 24, the team found itself trailing late in the third period [4]. It was Montreal Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki who provided the lifeline, netting the equalizer with just 3:27 remaining in regulation to force overtime [1][4]. In the extra frame, Mitch Marner capitalized on the 3-on-3 format, scoring the game-winner 82 seconds in to seal the 4-3 victory [3][4]. The win advances Canada to the semifinals scheduled for February 21, keeping their gold medal aspirations intact [1].
Statistical Breakdown of the Quarterfinal
Despite the close scoreline, Canada’s offensive pressure was evident throughout the contest. Connor McDavid led all players with seven shots on goal, while defenseman Cale Makar logged a team-high 26:41 of ice time to anchor the blue line [4]. The scoring opened early with Macklin Celebrini finding the net in the first period, followed by a back-and-forth battle that saw Nathan MacKinnon also score for Canada [4][5]. Czechia proved to be a formidable opponent, capitalizing on their opportunities with goals from Lukas Sedlak, David Pastrnak, and Ondrej Palat, the latter of whom gave Czechia the lead with under eight minutes remaining in the third [1][4]. Special teams played a balanced role, with both nations converting exactly one power-play opportunity each [4].
Captain Sidelined: The Crosby Injury Analysis
The victory came at a potentially high cost, as captain Sidney Crosby left the game in the second period and did not return [4]. The injury occurred following contact with Czechia’s Radko Gudas and Martin Necas, resulting in an apparent right leg issue for the veteran center [1]. Head coach Jon Cooper addressed the situation post-game, noting that Crosby was not in a position to help the team finish the match and would undergo further evaluation [4]. The loss of Crosby forced immediate line adjustments, placing a heavier burden on the remaining forward group to generate offense against a disciplined Czech defensive structure [4].
The Road to the Podium
With this hurdle cleared, Canada now looks ahead to the semifinals on Saturday, February 21 [1]. The tournament landscape is taking shape, as Slovakia has also booked their ticket to the next round following a decisive 6-2 victory over Germany earlier on February 18, a game where 2022 Olympic MVP Juraj Slafkovsky survived an injury scare of his own [1]. Canada awaits the conclusion of the remaining quarterfinals, including the matchup between the United States and Sweden, to determine their semifinal opponent [1][4]. As the competition narrows, the health of Canada’s roster, particularly Crosby, will likely be the defining narrative heading into the medal rounds.