In a dominating performance, the USA hockey team laid the groundwork for their victory over Slovakia early in the first period with goals from Dylan Larkin and Tage Thompson. By the second period, the American team's lead had ballooned, bolstered by two more goals from Jack Hughes and an additional tally from Jack Eichel, leaving Slovakia only able to respond with two goals late in the third period. As a result, the USA secured a place in the gold medal match against Canada, who triumphed over Finland in a dramatic semifinal.

The final for the gold medal is scheduled for Sunday at 15:00, promising to be an exciting showdown between the USA and Canada, two traditional rivals in ice hockey. Meanwhile, Slovakia will take on Finland in the bronze medal game on Saturday, after struggling to keep pace with the USA during the semifinals. The matchup between the USA and Canada is highly anticipated, given both teams' storied histories in the sport and their fierce competition.

This Olympic tournament has showcased the emerging talents of players like Larkin, Thompson, Hughes, and Eichel, emphasizing the depth of skill within the USA team. As they aim for Olympic gold, the stakes are high not only for the athletes but also for the national pride it represents. With the final looming, fans are eagerly awaiting an electrifying clash between the North American squads that could define the hockey narrative for years to come.