A disorganized Canadian women’s ice hockey squad suffered a 5-0 defeat to the United States in the Olympic women’s hockey competition on Tuesday. Missing their captain, Marie-Philip Poulin, due to a lower-body injury sustained in the previous match against the Czech Republic, Canada had Brianne Jenner serving as captain in Poulin’s absence.
The United States, led by Hannah Bilka’s two goals, secured a 5-0 victory, finishing at the top of Group A with a flawless 4-0-0-0 record. Caroline Harvey contributed a goal and two assists, while Kristen Simms and Laila Edwards also found the net for the U.S.
Aerin Frankel, the U.S. goalkeeper, achieved a shutout with 20 saves. Meanwhile, Canada’s Ann-Renee Desbiens was replaced by Emerance Maschmeyer in the third period after the U.S. scored their fifth goal on 27 shots. Maschmeyer made six saves during her relief appearance.
All five teams in Group A and the top three from Group B will progress to the quarterfinals scheduled for Friday and Saturday. Canada is set to face Germany in the quarterfinal match on Saturday.
Despite their efforts, Canada’s offense struggled in the game, with the U.S. leading 2-0 and 4-0 at the period intervals and showcasing dominant puck possession. The Americans effectively limited Canada’s scoring opportunities, maintaining tight defensive coverage throughout the match.
Harvey opened the scoring for the U.S. with a wrist shot, while Bilka extended the lead with a goal assisted by Abbey Murphy. Simms added a third goal for the U.S., which was upheld after a review despite a challenge from the Canadian head coach.
The game marked the first meeting between the archrivals since the U.S. swept the four-game Rivalry Series in December. Canada’s offensive struggles continued as the U.S. controlled the game, outshooting Canada and maintaining a strong defensive presence.
Czechia finished with a 1-0-1-2 record in Group A, while Sweden, Germany, and host Italy advanced from Group B. Canada played its first tournament game at the 14,000-seat Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena after two matches at Milano Rho.
Poulin’s absence was felt after she was injured in the previous game against the Czechs, forcing her to miss the crucial matchup against the United States.