Bars to open early for Canada-Czechia Olympic men’s hockey game

Canada's Sidney Crosby (87) reacts after scoring during a preliminary round game of men's ice hockey between Canada and France at the 2026 Winter Olympics, in Milan, Italy, Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)

Some bars across Windsor-Essex opened early Wednesday to give Olympic hockey fans a place to watch Team Canada in action.

The Canadian men’s hockey team will play Czechia in the quarterfinals of the winter Olympic tournament with puck drop set for 10:40 a.m.

The Czechs edged Denmark 3-2 Tuesday to advance to the next round against top-seeded Canada, who earned a bye into the quarterfinals.

The two teams faced off earlier in the Olympic tournament in a 5-0 win for Canada.

Bar Manager at the Canadian Brewhouse Windsor at Devonshire Mall Eric Miinch says they have over 50 televisions and expects a good crowd for the game as they’ve had lots of people in so far to watch the Olympics.

“Mostly hockey, a lot of curling, a fair amount of ice dancing. We’ve had some burly guys at the bar sitting watching ice dancing, it’s been a lot of fun to watch. Where everyone is getting into everything, it’s been fantastic.”

Miinch went on to say it’s been such a great atmosphere during the Olympics.

“Reservations are always good to make. Give us a call or reserve at Open Table online. If you show up, there’s a good chance, we have a a 25-seat plus bar with plenty of TVs to watch, so if you just pop in, there’s a good chance we’re going to get you a seat,” he said.

The bronze medal game in women’s hockey is scheduled for 8:40 a.m. on Thursday, February 19, while the gold medal game will take place the same day at 1:10 p.m.

The bronze medal game in men’s hockey is scheduled for 2:40 p.m. on Saturday, February 21, while the gold medal game will take place at 8:10 a.m. on Sunday, Feb. 22.