U.S. Hockey inch past Russia 3-2 at a penalty shootout (Creative Common/Kris Krug)

Two teams leveled at 2-2 after three periods of intense hockey. In the match deciding penalty shootout, TJ Oshie’s breathtaking shot at the eighth time declared a sudden death for the Russian side while grasping a crucial victory for the U.S. in the great rival match.

As President Vladimir Putin scrutinized the match emotionlessly from the stand, Oshie’s winner inspired an ecstatic celebration from the U.S. side, while silencing the home crowd with a huge sigh of disappointment.

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The controversial moment appeared on the 15th minutes of the third period, when a goal from Russian defender Fyodor Tyutin was called off. What could have been the game-winning goal for the Russia to break the long standing stalemate was put under review by the referees, and was eventually ruled out due to the dislodgement of the net prior to scoring.

The pressure to win a gold in men’s hockey is immense for the Russian side as they have yet to win the event after the breakup of the Soviet Union. The closest they got to a champion was a silver 12 years ago in Nagano 1998. Playing infront of the home crowd this year, the entire nation is anticipating the redemption of the long lost gold.

On the other hand, the Team USA is out to prove themselves worthy of the gold medal they lost against Canada in Vancouver four years ago. 

Read More at LA Times

Also Read 2014 Sochi Olympics Men’s Ice Hockey Preview

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