FOLLOW US

MANNHEIM, Germany, The U.S. Men’s National Team delivered a statement performance on the international stage, rolling past Germany 5-2 in its lone pre-tournament game ahead of the 2026 IIHF Men’s World Championship. In front of a packed and energized crowd of 12,909 at SAP Arena, Team USA showcased depth, speed, and precision with goals from five different players in a commanding win.

First Period Sets the Tone With Power Play Precision

The United States struck first in a tightly contested opening period, breaking through on a highlight-reel power play goal from Ryker Lee (Wilmette, Ill./Michigan State University). Lee lifted a backhander into the top corner from just in front of the goal line, igniting the U.S. bench and silencing the home crowd. Ryan Leonard (Amherst, Mass./Washington Capitals) and Justin Faulk (South St. Paul, Minn./Detroit Red Wings) earned assists on the play as Team USA took early control.

Middle Frame Momentum Turns Into a Scoring Surge

Team USA doubled its lead just 3:55 into the second period when Sam Lafferty (Hollidaysburg, Pa./Chicago Blackhawks) buried a close-range finish from out in front. The U.S. appeared to be pulling away, but Germany responded late in the frame to cut the deficit to 2-1 with 1:22 remaining.

Momentum shifted again in the final seconds. With just :17 left in the period, Alex Steeves (Eden Prairie, Minn./Boston Bruins) delivered a crucial response, firing home a shot from the bottom of the right circle to restore a two-goal cushion and quiet any German comeback hopes heading into the third.

Third Period Seals the Statement Victory

Max Plante (Hermantown, Minn./University of Minnesota Duluth) pushed the lead to 4-1 just 1:16 into the final period, giving the U.S. firm control of the game. Germany attempted to respond, narrowing the gap to 4-2 on a goal from Arkadisz Dziambor at 2:42, but the rally stalled there.

Mathieu Olivier (Columbus, Ohio/Columbus Blue Jackets) closed the door with an empty net goal, sealing the 5-2 final and capping a complete team performance for the United States.

Goaltending Stability Anchors Team USA Effort

Joseph Woll (St. Louis Mo./Toronto Maple Leafs) started in net for Team USA and delivered a steady first half, stopping all 11 shots he faced. Devin Cooley (Los Gatos, Calif./Calgary Flames) took over in the second half and finished strong with 16 saves, preserving the multi-goal advantage and locking in the win.

Next Stop: 2026 IIHF Men’s World Championship Opener

With preparations now complete, Team USA turns its focus to the 2026 IIHF Men’s World Championship. The Americans will open tournament play on Friday, May 15, against host Switzerland. Puck drop is set for 2:20 p.m. ET, with live coverage available on NHL Network.