On this day February 24 1980 the United States hockey team defeated Finland 4 to 2 to win the gold medal at the XIII Olympic Winter Games in Lake Placid New York. This victory completed one of the greatest underdog stories in sports history just two days after the USA’s shocking upset over the heavily favored Soviet Union in what became known as the Miracle on Ice.
Despite the emotional high of beating the Soviets Team USA still had to defeat Finland to secure the gold. The Americans trailed 2 to 1 heading into the third period before rallying with three unanswered goals to claim the championship. Goals from Phil Verchota Rob McClanahan and Mark Johnson sealed the win capping off an unforgettable Olympic run.
The victory over Finland ensured that Team USA finished the tournament undefeated and secured its first Olympic gold in men’s hockey since 1960. The win also marked the final day of the 1980 Winter Olympics as the closing ceremony took place that same night in Lake Placid.
80s insight: Many people mistakenly believe that the Miracle on Ice game against the Soviet Union was for the gold medal but it was actually the semifinal game. The USA had to beat Finland to officially win gold.
Despite the emotional high of beating the Soviets Team USA still had to defeat Finland to secure the gold. The Americans trailed 2 to 1 heading into the third period before rallying with three unanswered goals to claim the championship. Goals from Phil Verchota Rob McClanahan and Mark Johnson sealed the win capping off an unforgettable Olympic run.
The victory over Finland ensured that Team USA finished the tournament undefeated and secured its first Olympic gold in men’s hockey since 1960. The win also marked the final day of the 1980 Winter Olympics as the closing ceremony took place that same night in Lake Placid.
80s insight: Many people mistakenly believe that the Miracle on Ice game against the Soviet Union was for the gold medal but it was actually the semifinal game. The USA had to beat Finland to officially win gold.
