The Soviet Union and United States were constantly at odds — but they never actually met on the battlefield, not face to face, at least. So, when the United States and Soviet Union did meet in sports — on the field or court or ice — it was a really big deal.

In 1980, the U.S. sent a bunch of college kids to Lake Placid for the Winter Olympics, while the Soviets sent what was widely believed to be the best team in the world.

There was buzz leading up to the game, but nothing like today. There was no lengthy pregame show. There were no NHL players on the ice. The telecast didn’t feature any loud graphics or celebrity guests. In fact, the game didn’t even air live in the United States.

What happened was nothing short of a miracle.

Sports Wax is a weekly documentary that explores sports stories from yesteryear — memories of players, coaches, and teams that takes us back in time. Subscribe to get the Sports Wax newsletter.

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