News.Life

UPDATE 1: IOC Boosts Women’s Soccer Teams to 16 for LA 2028 Olympics, Men’s Teams Reduced to 12

DIWIDA.NEWS olympic games, olympic sports, olympics, sports, women's sports

<p>
 (Adds details)
</p>
<p>
 LAUSANNE, Switzerland, April 9 (DIWIDA > NEWS |) – The International Olympic Committee announced on Wednesday that the number of women’s soccer teams at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics will expand from 12 to 16, whereas the men’s tournament will decrease from 16 to 12 teams.
</p>
<p>
 This change was one of multiple adjustments made to the Olympic event lineup, introducing additional mixed-gender competitions across various sports. Additionally, every team sport will feature an equal number of female and male teams.
</p>
<p>
 The IOC said the reason for the sharp increase in women's soccer teams was the rapidly growing popularity of women's team sports, especially in the United States, and that change in the competition format reflected that rapid growth.
</p>
<p>
 "We aimed to do something to mirror this expansion, and also because the United States, which hosts the pinnacle of women’s soccer popularity, was involved," IOC Sports Director Kit McConnell stated at a press conference.
</p>
<p>
 He said the IOC had discussed the issue with both LA Games organisers and world soccer's governing body FIFA before going through with the changes.
</p>
<p>
 The total number of players -- men's and women's -- would not change.
</p>
<p>
 The United States, who will also host the 2026 men's and the 2031 women's World Cup, have won five Olympic gold medals in the women's competition.
</p>
<p>
 The male squads at the Olympics predominantly consist of under-23 athletes.
</p>
<p>
 The LA Games will feature a total of 351 medal events across all sports, which is 22 more than the number held during the Paris 2024 Olympics.
</p>
<p>
 Various sports such as archery, track and field, golf, and gymnastics will introduce new mixed team competitions. Despite this addition, the overall athlete count remains steady at 10,500.
</p>
<p>
 The five sports suggested by the LA Games organizing committee — baseball/softball, cricket, flag football, lacrosse, and squash — will be allocated an additional 698 spots. (Reported by Karolos Grohmann; edited by Pritha Sarkar)
</p>

UPDATE 1: IOC Boosts Women’s Soccer Teams to 16 for LA 2028 Olympics, Men’s Teams Reduced to 12

(Adds details) LAUSANNE, Switzerland, April 9 (DIWIDA > NEWS |) – The International Olympic Committee announced on Wednesday that th...

Ovechkin Matches Gretzky's Legend: 'The Great 8' Scores Historic 894th Goal

DIWIDA.NEWS athletes, hockey, nhl, olympics, sports

<p>
 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1CmwJc" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1CmwJc.jpg"/>
</p>
<p>
 "The Magnificent 8" stands alongside "The Greatest of All Time," and is ready to achieve a new landmark.
</p>
<p>
 As Wayne Gretzky looked on from a box at Capital One Arena, Alexander Ovechkin moved nearer to making history by scoring his 893rd and 894th career goals, tying him for the top spot on the NHL’s all-time list.
</p>
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<p>
 The tying goal, which equaled some historical record, was scored midway through the third period against the Chicago Blackhawks. He grabbed the puck and sped towards the net from the left wing during a Capitals power play, ultimately putting it beyond the reach of the goaltender.
</p>
<p>
 As Ovechkin went down on one knee, the Capitals' bench rushed onto the ice to join in the celebration of this landmark goal. Meanwhile, throngs of red-wearing supporters filling the stadium erupted into cheers.
</p>
<p>
 The Capitals forward reached his 894th goal in five less games compared to Gretzky.
</p>
<p>
 "It’s fine,” Gretzky stated during an in-game interview when discussing Ovechkin equaling his record. “My father used to tell Gordie Howe those words ages ago. That’s precisely what this sport is all about.”
</p>
<p>
 That’s the essence of this sport... Alex has really made a mark with the Washington Capitals... He’s also done his nation, Russia, proud... I feel incredibly proud of him... His achievements fill me with pride. That’s what makes our game truly special.
</p>
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<p>
 Ovechkin currently has six remaining regular-season games to break the record for most goals scored in NHL history, beginning with the game against the New York Islanders on Sunday afternoon.
</p>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1CmzdC" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1CmzdC.jpg"/>
<p>
 The team leader of the Capitals apparently had the chance to play later in the match and achieve the record-breaking goal along with a hat-trick right here at their arena, yet he informed his coaching staff that he prefers not to secure this record through scoring into an unoccupied net.
</p>
<p>
 Coach Spencer Carbery mentioned to journalists, "He aims to set a new record with a goalie positioned in the crease, and I respect his determination." He further explained, "He communicated this to me from the sidelines, so I simply wanted to ensure that he wasn’t thinking about giving up."
</p>
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<p>
 Even Ted Leonsis, the owner of the Capitals, joined in the celebration after the game, partying with the team and Gretzky in the locker room.
</p>
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<p>
 What a night. Wayne and Alex—are practically inseparable," Leonsis shared on social media. "Talking about setting goals and surpassing expectations. So much class—dignity and history all in one place.
</p>
<p>
 Only one more goal away—from being solo atop. Wayne reigns as the greatest player ever—and the most classy individual—the game recognizes game.
</p>
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<p>
 Ovechkin has been on fire recently as he pursues this prestigious milestone, scoring goals in five out of his last six matches, positioning himself to create history.
</p>
<p>
 Some players truly stand out from the crowd," remarked John Carlson, who set up Ovechkin's goal, to journalists following the match. "Only a select few seem able to do what they do. It felt almost certain.
</p>
<p>
 The NHL has committed to broadcasting all Capitals games nationally for the remainder of the season as Ovechkin pursues the top spot in goal-scoring.
</p>
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<p>
 For those eager to see history unfold, tune in for the game between the Capitals and the Islanders at 12:30 p.m. on April 6th, broadcasted live on TNT.
</p>
<h3>
 Related stories:
</h3>
<p>
 <ul>
  <li>
   Fencing Athlete Declines Match Against Transgender Rival Disqualified From University of Maryland Clash (VIDEO)
  </li>
  <li>
   Excitement Grows as Maryland Basketball Announces Hire of Texas A&M Coach to Take Over from Kevin Willard
  </li>
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   Kevin Willard Departs Maryland for Villanova Following Stellar Sweet 16 Appearance
  </li>
 </ul>
</p>

Ovechkin Matches Gretzky's Legend: 'The Great 8' Scores Historic 894th Goal

"The Magnificent 8" stands alongside "The Greatest of All Time," and is ready to achieve a new landmark. As Way...

Ovechkin Matches Gretzky's Legend: 'The Great 8' Scores Historic 894th Goal

DIWIDA.NEWS athletes, hockey, nhl, olympics, sports

<p>
 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1CmwJc" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1CmwJc.jpg"/>
</p>
<p>
 "The Magnificent Eight" stands alongside "The Greatest of All Time," and is ready to achieve a new landmark.
</p>
<p>
 As Wayne Gretzky looked on from a box at Capital One Arena, Alexander Ovechkin moved nearer to making history by scoring his 893rd and 894th goals, tying him for the top spot on the NHL’s all-time goal-scoring list.
</p>
<div class="b-embedded m-social-twitter">
 <div class="e-inner">
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   <span data-embed-id="85545995665c4568a5c52b51993bcc05" data-embed-type="social-auto">
   </span>
  </div>
 </div>
</div>
<p>
 The tying goal, which equaled a record, was scored midway through the final period against the Chicago Blackhawks. He received the puck as he skated swiftly down the left wing and managed to shoot it past the goaltender during a Capitals power play.
</p>
<p>
 As Ovechkin fell to his knees, the Capitals' bench rushed onto the ice to join in the celebration of this landmark goal. Meanwhile, a throng of red-dressed supporters filling the stadium erupted into cheers.
</p>
<p>
 The Capitals' forward achieved his 894th goal in five less games compared to Gretzky.
</p>
<p>
 "It’s fine,” Gretzky stated during an in-game interview when discussing Ovechkin equaling his record. “My father used to tell Gordie Howe something similar ages ago. This is exactly what our sport is meant for.”
</p>
<p>
 This is exactly what this sport is all about... Alex has really made a difference for the Washington Capitals... His contributions extend to his home country, Russia, as well... It fills me with pride seeing everything he’s achieved... I’m immensely proud of him and that's what makes our game truly special.
</p>
<div class="b-embedded m-social-twitter">
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  </div>
 </div>
</div>
<p>
 Ovechkin currently has six remaining regular-season games to break the record for most goals scored in NHL history, beginning with the game against the New York Islanders on Sunday afternoon.
</p>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1CmzdC" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1CmzdC.jpg"/>
<p>
 The team leader of the Capitals apparently had the chance to play later in the match and achieve the record-breaking goal along with a hat trick right here at their home arena. However, he informed his coaching staff that he prefers not to secure this record through scoring into an unguarded net.
</p>
<p>
 Coach Spencer Carbery mentioned to reporters, "He aims to set a new record with a goalie in the net, and I respect that decision." He added, "He informed me of this on the sidelines, so I simply wanted to verify that he wasn’t thinking about giving up."
</p>
<div class="b-embedded m-social-twitter">
 <div class="e-inner">
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   <span data-embed-id="b61150070c0f4652a53165ba0738d3e8" data-embed-type="social-auto">
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 </div>
</div>
<p>
 Even Ted Leonsis, the owner of the Capitals, joined in the celebration after the game, partying with the team and Gretzky in the locker room.
</p>
<div class="b-embedded m-social-twitter">
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</div>
<p>
 What a night. Wayne and Alex—are practically inseparable," Leonsis shared on social media. "Talking about setting goals and surpassing expectations. So much class—dignity and history all in one place.
</p>
<p>
 Only one more objective remains—to stand solo atop the pinnacle. Wayne outshines all as the greatest player ever—and the most elegant gentleman—the game recognizes true greatness.
</p>
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   </span>
  </div>
 </div>
</div>
<p>
 Ovechkin has been on fire recently as he pursues this prestigious milestone, scoring goals in five out of his last six matches, positioning himself to create history.
</p>
<p>
 Some players truly transcend ordinary existence," John Carlson, who set up Ovechkin's goal, told journalists following the match. "Only a select few seem able to achieve this. It appeared as though it was bound to happen.
</p>
<p>
 The NHL has committed to broadcasting all Capitals games nationwide for the remainder of the season as Ovechkin pursues the top spot in goalscorer rankings.
</p>
<div class="b-embedded m-social-twitter">
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  </div>
 </div>
</div>
<p>
 For those eager to see history being made, tune into TNT at noon thirty on April sixth to catch the Capitals playing against the Islanders.
</p>
<h3>
 Related stories:
</h3>
<p>
 <ul>
  <li>
   Fencing Athlete Declines Match Against Transgender Rival Disqualified From University of Maryland Event (VIDEO)
  </li>
  <li>
   Excitement Grows as Maryland Basketball Appoints Texas A&M Coach to Take Over from Kevin Willard
  </li>
  <li>
   Kevin Willard Departs Maryland for Villanova Following Stellar Sweet 16 Appearance
  </li>
 </ul>
</p>

Ovechkin Matches Gretzky's Legend: 'The Great 8' Scores Historic 894th Goal

"The Magnificent Eight" stands alongside "The Greatest of All Time," and is ready to achieve a new landmark. As...

Ovechkin Matches Gretzky's Legend: 'The Great 8' Scores Historic 894th Goal

DIWIDA.NEWS athletes, hockey, nhl, olympics, sports

<p>
 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1CmwJc" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1CmwJc.jpg"/>
</p>
<p>
 "The Great 8" is standing side by side with "the Great One," and is poised to reach a new milestone.
</p>
<p>
 With Wayne Gretzky watching from a suite at Capital One Arena, Alexander Ovechkin inched closer to history as he scored the 893rd and 894th goals of his career to tie the all-time NHL record.
</p>
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</div>
<p>
 The history-tying goal came halfway through the third period against the Chicago Blackhawks when he took the puck racing down the left wing and put it past the goalie during a Capitals power play.
</p>
<p>
 Ovechkin dropped to his knees as the Capitals' bench stormed the ice to celebrate the historic goal while a sea of red-clad fans who packed the arena roared.
</p>
<p>
 The Capitals' forward reached his 894th goal in a number of games that was one less than Gretzky's.
</p>
<p>
 "That's OK," Gretzky said during a mid-game interview regarding Ovechkin tying his record. "That's what my dad told Gordie Howe way back in the day. That's what this game is all about.
</p>
<p>
 "That's what this game is all about ... Alex has been great for Washington (Capitals) ... He's been great for his own country (Russia) ... And I'm very proud of him ... I'm proud of what he accomplished. And that's what makes our game so wonderful.
</p>
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</div>
<p>
 Ovechkin now has six games left in the regular season to become the leading goal-scorer in history, starting with the New York Islanders on Sunday afternoon.
</p>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1CmzdC" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1CmzdC.jpg"/>
<p>
 The team leader of the Capitals apparently had the chance to play towards the end of the match and achieve a record-breaking goal along with a hat trick right here at their home arena. However, he informed his coaching staff that he does not wish to secure this record through scoring into an unguarded net.
</p>
<p>
 Coach Spencer Carbery stated to journalists, "I value his desire to set a new record even when having a goalie in the net." He further mentioned, "He informed me about this on the sidelines, so I simply wanted to verify that he wasn’t thinking of quitting."
</p>
<div class="b-embedded m-social-twitter">
 <div class="e-inner">
  <div>
   <span data-embed-id="a435870171564304b36a1cf5cc9b7410" data-embed-type="social-auto">
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  </div>
 </div>
</div>
<p>
 Even Ted Leonsis, the owner of the Capitals, joined in the celebration after the game, partying with the team and Gretzky in the locker room.
</p>
<div class="b-embedded m-social-twitter">
 <div class="e-inner">
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 </div>
</div>
<p>
 Wow, what a night. Wayne and Alex—are practically inseparable," Leonsis shared on social media. "They really set goals and surpass expectations. So much class—dignity and history all in one place.
</p>
<p>
 Only one more goal away from being solo at the pinnacle. Wayne is undoubtedly the greatest player ever—and the most elegant gentleman—the game has ever seen.
</p>
<div class="b-embedded m-social-twitter">
 <div class="e-inner">
  <div>
   <span data-embed-id="b95136d737444069beae7e46bcb719db" data-embed-type="social-auto">
   </span>
  </div>
 </div>
</div>
<p>
 Ovechkin has been on fire recently as he pursues this prestigious milestone, scoring goals in five out of his last six matches, positioning himself to create history.
</p>
<p>
 Some players truly embody the essence of living large," John Carlson, who set up Ovechkin's goal, told journalists following the match. "Only a select few seem able to do so. It appeared as though it was bound to happen.
</p>
<p>
 The NHL has committed to broadcasting all Capitals games nationwide for the remainder of the season as Ovechkin pursues the top spot in goal-scoring.
</p>
<div class="b-embedded m-social-twitter">
 <div class="e-inner">
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  </div>
 </div>
</div>
<p>
 For those eager to see history unfold, tune in for the game between the Capitals and the Islanders at 12:30 p.m. on April 6th on TNT.
</p>
<h3>
 Related stories:
</h3>
<p>
 <ul>
  <li>
   Fencing Athlete Declines Match Against Transgender Rival Disqualified From University of Maryland Event (VIDEO)
  </li>
  <li>
   Excitement Grows as Maryland Basketball Appoints Texas A&M Coach to Take Over from Kevin Willard
  </li>
  <li>
   Kevin Willard Departs Maryland for Villanova Following Spectacular Sweet 16 Appearance
  </li>
 </ul>
</p>

Ovechkin Matches Gretzky's Legend: 'The Great 8' Scores Historic 894th Goal

"The Great 8" is standing side by side with "the Great One," and is poised to reach a new milestone. With Wayne...

Ovechkin Matches Gretzky's Legend: 'The Great 8' Scores Historic 894th Goal

DIWIDA.NEWS hockey, nhl, olympics, sports

<p>
 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1CmwJc" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1CmwJc.jpg"/>
</p>
<p>
 "The Magnificent 8" stands alongside "The Greatest of All Time," and is ready to achieve a new landmark.
</p>
<p>
 As Wayne Gretzky looked on from a box at the Capital One Arena, Alexander Ovechkin moved nearer to making history by scoring his 893rd and 894th career goals, tying him for the top spot on the NHL’s all-time list.
</p>
<div class="b-embedded m-social-twitter">
 <div class="e-inner">
  <div>
   <span data-embed-id="76f4745e3aad41b8bfe5d8f3798dce6f" data-embed-type="social-auto">
   </span>
  </div>
 </div>
</div>
<p>
 The tying goal, which equaled a historic record, was scored midway through the third period against the Chicago Blackhawks. He received the puck as he skated swiftly down the left wing and managed to score it past the goaltender during a Capitals power play.
</p>
<p>
 As Ovechkin fell to his knees, the Capitals' bench rushed onto the ice to join in celebrating this milestone goal, while an ocean of red-clad supporters filling the arena erupted into cheers.
</p>
<p>
 The Capitals forward reached his 894th goal in five fewer games compared to Gretzky.
</p>
<p>
 "It’s fine,” Gretzky stated during an in-game interview when discussing Ovechkin equaling his record. “My father used to tell Gordie Howe those words long ago. This is exactly what our sport is meant for.”
</p>
<p>
 This is exactly what this sport is all about... Alex has really made a difference for the Washington Capitals... His contributions extend to his home nation, Russia, as well... I feel incredibly proud of him... It’s his achievements that make our game truly special.
</p>
<div class="b-embedded m-social-twitter">
 <div class="e-inner">
  <div>
   <span data-embed-id="d72d27a8ff4b424d888a2f444f8fc976" data-embed-type="social-auto">
   </span>
  </div>
 </div>
</div>
<p>
 Ovechkin currently has six remaining regular-season games to break the record for most goals scored in NHL history, beginning with the game against the New York Islanders on Sunday afternoon.
</p>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1CmzdC" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1CmzdC.jpg"/>
<p>
 The team leader of the Capitals apparently had the chance to play towards the end of the match and achieve the record-breaking goal along with a hat trick right here at their arena. However, he informed his coaching staff that he prefers not to secure this record through scoring into an unguarded net.
</p>
<p>
 Coach Spencer Carbery stated to journalists, "He aims to set a new record with a goalie in the net, and I respect his determination." He further mentioned, "He informed me of this on the sidelines, so I simply needed to ensure that he wasn’t looking to leave voluntarily."
</p>
<div class="b-embedded m-social-twitter">
 <div class="e-inner">
  <div>
   <span data-embed-id="3ca20996b5584de1a1350e2477ff729e" data-embed-type="social-auto">
   </span>
  </div>
 </div>
</div>
<p>
 Even Ted Leonsis, the owner of the Capitals, joined in the celebration after the game, partying with the team and Gretzky in the locker room.
</p>
<div class="b-embedded m-social-twitter">
 <div class="e-inner">
  <div>
   <span data-embed-id="183f6d201c8d4e94959b4c813a135973" data-embed-type="social-auto">
   </span>
  </div>
 </div>
</div>
<p>
 What a night. Wayne and Alex—they're inseparable," Leonsis shared on social media. "Talking about setting goals and surpassing expectations. So much class—dignity and history all in one place.
</p>
<p>
 Only one more goal away from being solo at the pinnacle. Wayne is undoubtedly the greatest player ever—and the most dignified gentleman—the game has ever seen.
</p>
<div class="b-embedded m-social-twitter">
 <div class="e-inner">
  <div>
   <span data-embed-id="e3a4fc4501364f3590453175f287cc70" data-embed-type="social-auto">
   </span>
  </div>
 </div>
</div>
<p>
 Ovechkin has been on fire recently as he pursues the esteemed record, scoring goals in five out of his last six matches to position himself for making history.
</p>
<p>
 Some players truly embody living legends,” John Carlson, who set up Ovechkin's goal, told journalists following the match. “Only a select few seem able to do so. It appeared almost certain.
</p>
<p>
 The NHL has committed to broadcasting all Capitals games nationwide for the remainder of the season as Ovechkin pursues the top spot in goalscorer rankings.
</p>
<div class="b-embedded m-social-twitter">
 <div class="e-inner">
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   <span data-embed-id="506b4c847750463893c4ae26a9428eec" data-embed-type="social-auto">
   </span>
  </div>
 </div>
</div>
<p>
 For those eager to see history unfold, tune in to TNT at 12:30 p.m. on April 6 to catch the Capitals playing against the Islanders.
</p>
<h3>
 Related stories:
</h3>
<p>
 <ul>
  <li>
   Fencing Athlete Declines to Face Disqualified Transgender Rival at College Park Tourney (VIDEO)
  </li>
  <li>
   Excitement Grows as Maryland Basketball Appoints Texas A&M Coach to Take Over from Kevin Willard
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   Don't Overlook the Performance of the National Anthem by the Baltimore Singer at Orioles' Season Opening Game
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</p>

Ovechkin Matches Gretzky's Legend: 'The Great 8' Scores Historic 894th Goal

"The Magnificent 8" stands alongside "The Greatest of All Time," and is ready to achieve a new landmark. As Way...

Ovechkin Matches Gretzky's Legend: 'The Great 8' Scores Historic 894th Goal

DIWIDA.NEWS athletes, hockey, nhl, olympics, sports

<p>
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<p>
 "The Magnificent Eight" stands alongside "The Greatest of All Time," and is ready to achieve a new landmark.
</p>
<p>
 With Wayne Gretzky watching from a suite at Capital One Arena, Alexander Ovechkin inched closer to history as he scored the 893rd and 894th goals of his career to tie the all-time NHL record.
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 The history-tying goal came halfway through the third period against the Chicago Blackhawks when he took the puck racing down the left wing and put it past the goalie during a Capitals power play.
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<p>
 As Ovechkin fell to his knees, the Capitals' bench rushed onto the ice to join in the celebration of this landmark goal. Meanwhile, a throng of spectators dressed in red filled the arena, their cheers echoing loudly.
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<p>
 The Capitals forward scored his 894th goal in one fewer game than Gretzky.
</p>
<p>
 "That's OK," Gretzky said during a mid-game interview regarding Ovechkin tying his record. "That's what my dad told Gordie Howe way back in the day. That's what this game is all about.
</p>
<p>
 "That's what this game is all about ... Alex has been great for Washington (Capitals) ... He's been great for his own country (Russia) ... And I'm very proud of him ... I'm proud of what he accomplished. And that's what makes our game so wonderful.
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<p>
 Ovechkin now has six games left in the regular season to become the leading goal-scorer in history, starting with the New York Islanders on Sunday afternoon.
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<p>
 It’s said that the Capitals team leader might have gotten the chance to play towards the end of the match and achieve the record-breaking goal along with a hat trick right here at their home arena. However, he informed his coaching staff that he prefers not to secure this record through scoring into an unguarded net.
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<p>
 Coach Spencer Carbery stated to journalists, "I admire his intention to set a new record with a goalie in the crease," adding that the player had informed him about this during their time on the bench and he simply needed assurance that the player was not considering quitting.
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<p>
 Even Ted Leonsis, the owner of the Capitals, joined in the celebration after the game, partying with the team and Gretzky in the locker room.
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<p>
 What a night. Wayne and Alex—they’re inseparable," Leonsis shared on social media. "Talking about setting goals and surpassing expectations. So much class—dignity and history all in one place.
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<p>
 "One more goal to go— to be alone at the top. Wayne is the best player ever— and the classiest man— Game knows Game."
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<p>
 Ovechkin has been on a tear lately as he chases down the hallowed record, notching goals in five of his last six games to set himself up to make history.
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<p>
 “Some guys are larger than life," John Carlson, who assisted Ovechkin's goal, said to reporters after the game. "It just seems like only a few people are capable of it. It seemed inevitable.”
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<p>
 The NHL has pledged to nationally broadcast every Capitals game for the rest of the season as Ovechkin chases the goal scoring title.
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<p>
 Those looking to witness history can watch the Capitals take on the Islanders at 12:30 p.m. on April 6 on TNT.
</p>
<h3>
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Ovechkin Matches Gretzky's Legend: 'The Great 8' Scores Historic 894th Goal

"The Magnificent Eight" stands alongside "The Greatest of All Time," and is ready to achieve a new landmark. Wi...

Ovechkin Matches Gretzky's Legend: 'The Great 8' Scores Historic 894th Goal

DIWIDA.NEWS athletes, hockey, nhl, olympics, sports

<p>
 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1CmwJc" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1CmwJc.jpg"/>
</p>
<p>
 "The Magnificent Eight" stands alongside "The Greatest of All Time," and is ready to achieve a significant landmark.
</p>
<p>
 As Wayne Gretzky looked on from a box at Capital One Arena, Alexander Ovechkin moved nearer to making history by scoring his 893rd and 894th goals, tying him for the top spot on the NHL’s all-time list.
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<p>
 The tying goal, which equaled some historic record, was scored midway through the third period against the Chicago Blackhawks. He grabbed the puck and sped towards the net from the left wing during a Capitals power play, managing to get it past the goaltender.
</p>
<p>
 As Ovechkin fell to his knees, the Capitals' bench rushed onto the ice to join in celebrating the milestone score, while an ocean of red-clad supporters filling the stadium erupted into cheers.
</p>
<p>
 The Capitals' forward achieved his 894th goal in a number of games that was one less than Gretzky's.
</p>
<p>
 "It’s fine,” Gretzky stated during an in-game interview when discussing Ovechkin equaling his record. “My father used to tell Gordie Howe those words ages ago. That’s precisely what this sport is all about.”
</p>
<p>
 That’s the essence of this sport... Alex has really made a mark with the Washington Capitals... He’s also done wonders for Russia... I feel incredibly proud of him... His achievements fill me with pride. That’s what makes our game truly special.
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<p>
 Ovechkin currently has six remaining regular-season games to break the record for most goals scored in NHL history, beginning with the match against the New York Islanders on Sunday afternoon.
</p>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1CmzdC" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1CmzdC.jpg"/>
<p>
 The team leader of the Capitals apparently had the chance to play towards the end of the match and achieve the record-breaking goal along with a hat-trick in front of their home crowd. However, he informed his coaching staff that he prefers not to secure this record through scoring into an unguarded net.
</p>
<p>
 Coach Spencer Carbery mentioned to journalists, "He aims to set a new record with a goalie in the net, and I respect that." He added, "He informed me of this on the sidelines, so I simply wanted to verify that he wasn’t thinking about giving up."
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<p>
 Even Ted Leonsis, the owner of the Capitals, joined in the celebration after the game, partying with the team and Gretzky in the locker room.
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<p>
 Wow, what a night. Wayne and Alex—they're practically inseparable," Leonsis shared on social media. "Talking about setting goals and surpassing expectations. So much class—dignity and history all in one place.
</p>
<p>
 Only one more goal away from being solo at the pinnacle. Wayne stands as the greatest player ever—and the most elegant gentleman—the game has seen.
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<p>
 Ovechkin has been remarkably consistent recently as he pursues this prestigious milestone, scoring goals in five out of his last six matches, positioning himself to create history.
</p>
<p>
 Some players truly transcend life itself," remarked John Carlson, who set up Ovechkin's goal, to the press following the match. "Only a select few seem able to do so. It appeared almost certain.
</p>
<p>
 The NHL has committed to broadcasting all Capitals games nationwide for the remainder of the season as Ovechkin pursues the top spot in goalscorer rankings.
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<p>
 For those eager to see history unfold, tune into TNT on April 6 at 12:30 p.m. to catch the Capitals playing against the Islanders.
</p>
<h3>
 Related stories:
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Ovechkin Matches Gretzky's Legend: 'The Great 8' Scores Historic 894th Goal

"The Magnificent Eight" stands alongside "The Greatest of All Time," and is ready to achieve a significant landmar...