Almost 45 years ago, on Friday, Feb. 22, 1980, the United States ice hockey team was set to match up against the undefeated Soviet Union team. What was expected to be a blowout was one of the greatest upsets in sports history.

The Soviet Union, a dominant force in international hockey, had won four consecutive Olympic gold medals and was expected to earn another victory in the 1980 Winter Olympics. The U.S. team, composed of young amateur and collegiate players, was not expected to make it far against the seasoned Soviet professionals. Assembled by head coach Herb Brooks, the team was composed of collegiate players with an average age of just 21 years old, compared to the Soviet Union, which was filled with experienced veterans, many of whom had competed together for years.

Just weeks before, the Soviet team had humiliated the U.S. in an exhibition match at Madison Square Garden, winning 10-3. During that game, the Soviets showcased their talent, but rather than giving up, Herb Brooks implemented a new style of play which blended American speed skating with European-style puck control. This last-minute audible could have been the difference-maker in Lake Placid.

The game began with an intense but excited atmosphere, fans screaming in anticipation. The Soviets quickly took a lead when Vladimir Krutov deflected a shot past Jim Craig, but soon after, Buzz Schneider scored to tie the game for the Americans. The back-and-forth action continued, with the Soviets retaking the lead before Mark Johnson’s goal in the final second of the first period, shocking the Soviet squad.

In a controversial move driven by frustration, Soviet head coach Viktor Tikhonov replaced legendary goaltender Vladislav Tretiak with backup Vladimir Myshkin at the start of the second period. This decision remains one of the most debated coaching calls in hockey history. Afterwards, the Soviets took a 3-2 lead in the second period, appearing to regain control. However, the U.S. players rallied in the third period, with Mark Johnson tying the game at 3-3, setting the stage for Mike Eruzione’s legendary goal with exactly 10 minutes remaining. The final 10 minutes of play were more of a defensive game, with Craig turning away shot after shot from the aggressive Soviet offense. When the final buzzer sounded, the U.S. bench erupted in celebration.

As the clock wound down, broadcaster Al Michaels said his now-famous words: “Do you believe in miracles? Yes!” The buzzer sounded, sealing one of the most iconic moments in Olympic and sports history.

The Miracle on Ice hockey game took place during heightened Cold War tensions, symbolizing American resilience. Two days later, the U.S. team used this energy to defeat another impressive hockey team, Finland,  4-2 in the gold medal game, completing what was said to be a doubtful journey to Olympic glory.

After the U.S. won the gold medal, the players became national heroes, with many going on to successful careers on and off the ice, and Herb Brooks’ leadership and coaching philosophy inspiring generations. The game influenced many films and books, including the acclaimed 2004 movie Miracle. In this game, determination, grit and the power of resilience were showcased. Do you believe in miracles? The United States 1980 ice hockey team certainly did.