On Sochi Olympics’ final day, Russia earns cross-country redemption

SOCHI, Russia — One of the few places the Russians were disappointed at these Games was in cross-country. The host nation had won only two silver medals, in men’s relay and team sprint. But all of that changed Sunday, the final day of the Olympics, when Russia swept the men’s 50-kilometer race.

Alexander Legkov outsprinted his teammates to win the gold medal. Maxim Vylegzhanin edged Ilia Chernousov in a photo finish by .07 of a second.

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Somewhat surprising was the performance of defending champion Oetter Northug of Norway. He finished 18th and left the Games without a medal after winning four in Vancouver in 2010, two of them gold.

Noah Hoffman was the highest-finishing American skier, in 26th place. Hoffman was in the top 10 for most of the race and was even second at the 42.5-kilometer mark.

American Brian Gregg finished 51st and Torin Koos of the U.S. did not start.