Latvia delivered a breakthrough moment at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, edging Germany 4-3 at Rho Arena. This was their first men’s hockey win at the Games since 2014. Forward Dans Locmelis scored twice, sparking a three-goal surge that flipped the contest in Latvia’s favor.
Latvia last won 3-1 in a qualification playoff win over Switzerland at the Sochi Games on Feb. 18, 2014. In the 2026 Olympics, they had opened this tournament with a 5-1 loss to the United States but responded with a strong effort against Germany. Goaltender Arturs Silovs made 26 saves to anchor the effort.
Spittin’ Chiclets captured the mood on X, posting, “Latvia stuns Germany for first Olympic win in 12 years.”
The message quickly gained traction as fans celebrated the upset.
“Locmelis is a beast. Too bad @NHLBruins are sleeping on him.” One fan wrote.
“It’s time for Dans Locmelis for NHL💪🏼🇱🇻 Great Latvia #hockey team! ⭐️⭐️⭐️.” Another fan added.
“Latvia always has a shocking win after tournament. Just a great hockey country. Miss watching Dynamo Riga in the KHL,” A fan mentioned.
Here are some more reactions from fans on X:
“As a German Bruins fan, this is a roller coaster of emotions lmao 😭😭” A fan wrote.
“After last years World Championships and his Olympic performance thus far, Sweeney needs to bring him up for a serious look in the second half!” One fan wrote for Locmelis.
“Latvian hockey is dying, don’t get excited. Not a single player on their roster plays for a Latvian club after they killed Dynamo Riga by forcing it out of KHL. Retards (politicians).” A fan reacted.
Latvia Made a Comeback After Germany’s Early Lead
In the game, Germany struck first when Lukas Reichel scored on a breakaway at 2:06 of the opening period. Dans Locmelis tied it 1-1 on a power play at 15:48. Lukas Kalble restored Germany’s lead at 16:56 to make it 2-1.
Locmelis added his second power-play goal at 8:02 of the second period to level the score. Eduards Tralmaks gave Latvia its first lead at 8:32 of the third on a breakaway. Renars Krastenbergs made it 4-2 at 11:37 with a rebound finish. Tim Stutzle cut the deficit to 4-3 late, but Latvia held on for the win.
With renewed confidence, Latvia now turns its focus to Denmark in its next preliminary-round matchup. The win has revived Olympic hopes for the team.
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