Full Breakdown
Curling Showdown at Milano Cortina 2026: Semifinals and Medal Matches
2/20/2026, 9:48:11 PM
Men's Semifinals: Canada vs. Great Britain
In a thrilling semifinal match at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, Canada's Brad Jacobs led his team to a narrow 5-4 victory over Norway's Magnus Ramsfjell, securing a spot in the gold medal game against Great Britain's Bruce Mouat. The match was tightly contested, with Norway initially taking a 3-0 lead in the first end. However, Jacobs' rink managed to tie the game in the tenth end, forcing an extra end where they capitalized on their hammer advantage to clinch the win. This victory marks Canada's first opportunity to win gold in men's curling since the 2014 Sochi Games.
Great Britain, the reigning world champions, reached the final by defeating Switzerland 8-5 in their semifinal. The match turned in the seventh end when Mouat executed a brilliant takeout, allowing his team to gain momentum and ultimately secure the win. The final between Canada and Great Britain is set for Saturday, February 22, 2026.
Women's Semifinals: Canada vs. United States
On the women's side, Canada's Rachel Homan also advanced to the semifinals after a crucial 10-7 victory over South Korea, overcoming an early deficit. Homan's team, which includes Tracy Fleury, Emma Miskew, and Sarah Wilkes, scored four points in the sixth end to take control of the match. They will face the United States, who secured their semifinal spot by defeating Switzerland 7-6 in a tense match that went to an extra end. The U.S. team, skipped by Tabitha Peterson, will look to continue their momentum against the Canadian squad.
The women's gold medal match will take place on Sunday, February 23, 2026, following the bronze medal games for both men and women on February 21.
Official Statements & Responses
Brad Jacobs expressed pride in his team's performance, stating, "To give them even one more game to cheer for means everything to all of us." Meanwhile, Tabitha Peterson highlighted the importance of their recent victories, noting, "We’re capable of anything, and we’re going to just carry the momentum into the semifinals."
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the excitement surrounding the semifinals, the tournament has not been without controversy. The Canadian men's team faced scrutiny earlier in the competition due to accusations of double-touching rocks, which led to heightened tensions during their matches. Jacobs addressed the situation, emphasizing their ability to focus on the game despite external distractions.
What's Next
The gold medal matches for both men's and women's curling will take place on February 22 and 23, 2026, respectively. The outcomes will determine which teams will leave Milano Cortina with Olympic medals, adding to the rich history of curling at the Winter Olympics.
