Team Canada has taken to the ice for the primary time within the 2026 Winter Olympics, facing Czechia. Prior to the games, Canada’s Macklin Celebrini called it a dream to play for the national team on the Olympic stage.
Now, Celebrini could have to examine if he is definitely dreaming after netting the primary goal of the Olympics for Canada in the primary period.
— hkyclipz (@hkyclipz) February 12, 2026
With just 11.7 seconds left in the primary period, Connor McDavid had the puck deep within the offensive zone. He banked a pass across the ice, which found Cale Makar, who promptly put the puck on net. Sitting in front of the online, Celebrini deflected the shot, beating Czech goaltender Lukas Dostal.
This was greater than just a primary Olympic goal for a 19-year-old, but also some history, in response to Lukas Weese of The Athletic.
Along with his goal in the primary period, he became the youngest Canadian NHL player to attain a goal on the Olympic Games. Celebrini can be the younger player on the Team Canada roster this yr.
“I am unable to really put it into words. I used to be so excited,” Celebrini said about getting the Olympic call, via NHL.com.
Canada got here into the Olympics because the favorites to win the gold. They currently lead Czechia 2-0 within the second period, although the competition has been relatively evenly matched through the primary half.
Each countries will take to the ice again on Friday, as Canada will face Switzerland while Czechia collides with France. They each close group play on Sunday.