REGINA — Regina residents were jumping for joy as Team Canada advanced to the gold-medal game in men’s hockey after beating Finland 3-2 at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Fans cheering on the team at Birmingham's Vodka & Ale House during Friday’s game described it as tense and emotional.
“There was no part of that that was actually enjoyable until right this moment,” said Scott Gardiner.
Canada had been trailing Finland 2-0 midway through the second period.
“When you're down 2-0 with only 35 minutes left, you're a little worried, but the boys always grind it out,” said Michael Stephenson.
Canada managed to get on the board late in the second period, courtesy of Sam Reinhart, followed by Shea Theodore, who tied the game in the third.
With a few minutes left in the game, Canada went on the power play, taking advantage of the extra man as Nathan MacKinnon scored with a minute left.
“They had a golden opportunity, so they had to score there,” said Gardiner.
Finland challenged the goal, as the team believed Canada was offside entering the zone before scoring the eventual game-winner.
Fans inside Birmingham's Vodka & Ale House waited in silence.
“I think everyone in here and we were like, oh no, we're going to OT,” said Stephenson.
“I was holding my breath, staring down at the table,” said Gardiner.
After the review, officials confirmed the goal, and Canada held on until the clock hit zero.
With the win, Canada will advance to its first gold-medal game since the 2014 Winter Olympics.
2014 was also the last year that National Hockey League players participated in the Olympics.
“It's been good to watch best on best hockey here for the first time in [a while],” said Gardiner.
“It's really good to see the boys back playing their top-notch game for the whole world,” said Stephenson.
Canada will face either the United States or Slovakia in the gold-medal game.
Gardiner and Stephenson had different answers on who they hoped to face.
“I always want the easier one. So give me the Slovaks all day,” said Gardiner.
Stephenson said, “Well, I think we all want to see [the] USA and Canada at the finals.”
Both plan to wake up bright and early Sunday to see Canada play.
