The U.S. men’s hockey team has advanced to the semifinals of the IIHF World Championship, needing just one more victory to achieve its best finish in 75 years. After a strong comeback against Finland, winning 5-2, the U.S. will now face an opponent to be determined. This victory comes after trailing 2-1, showcasing the team's resilience with two quick goals that shifted the momentum. A win in the semifinals guarantees either a gold or silver medal, marking a significant achievement for a team that last earned silver in 1950.

Head coach Ryan Warsofsky, currently managing the squad, is guiding a team that includes star players like Jeremy Swayman and Zach Werenski, who previously excelled at the 4 Nations Face-Off. The tournament's timing often means that many top NHL players miss out, but the U.S. has qualified for the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics, which is set to feature NHL athletes again. This marks a turning point for the U.S. hockey program following consistent quarterfinal exits in recent years.