On Tuesday, February 10, 2026, the United States women’s national ice hockey team made Olympic history with a commanding 5‑0 win over rival Canada during the Milano Cortina Winter Olympic Games in Italy, a result that reverberated across the sporting world and underscored the U.S. squad’s status as a gold‑medal favorite.
In front of a packed crowd at the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena, the U.S. team dominated from start to finish, building a 2‑0 lead in the first period before extending their advantage through all three periods of play. The final score not only clinched the top seed in Group A for the Americans heading into the quarterfinals but also marked the first time Canada’s women’s hockey team had ever been shut out in Olympic history.
A Historic Performance
The standout performance came from forward Hannah Bilka, who scored two goals, showcasing both speed and precision against one of international hockey’s toughest defenses. Bilka’s contributions helped set the tone early, with one goal in the first period and another in the second. Additional scoring came from Caroline Harvey, Kirsten Simms, and Laila Edwards, each finding the back of the net with poise and consistency.
American goalie Aerin Frankel was equally impressive between the pipes, stopping 20 shots and earning her second shutout of the Games. Her performance helped quell any hopes of a comeback from Canada while underscoring the balance between offensive firepower and defensive resilience that the U.S. team has exhibited throughout the tournament.
Beyond the Scoreline
The significance of this victory extends beyond its lopsided score. Canada and the United States have one of the most storied rivalries in women’s ice hockey, dating back to the sport’s Olympic debut in 1998, and together they have dominated the podium at every Olympic Winter Games. Prior to Tuesday’s matchup, Canada had never been shut out in Olympic play, a testament to the consistent excellence of both programs at the highest level.
But on February 10, the dynamic shifted noticeably. The U.S. not only outscored its opponents 20–1 throughout the preliminary round but did so with a cohesive blend of veteran leadership and youthful talent. The victory secured the No. 1 seed in Group A, ensuring a favorable path into the Olympic quarterfinals, where they are scheduled to face host nation Italy on Friday, February 13.
What It Means for the Olympics
This dominant showing is significant for several reasons:
- Confidence and Momentum: Entering the knockout rounds with an undefeated record boosts the team’s confidence and sends a message to competitors that the U.S. squad is peaking at the right moment.
- Rivalry Redefined: Though Canada remains a perennial powerhouse, the decisive margin by which the U.S. won suggests a potential shift in the balance of power, at least in this particular Olympic cycle.
- Inspiration for Women’s Sports: Such a commanding performance on an international stage contributes to the broader visibility and support for women’s sports, inspiring young athletes across the U.S. and beyond.
Voices from the Ice
After the game, players and analysts alike reflected on the significance of the moment. NBC Sports hockey analyst and Olympic gold medalist Angela Ruggiero described this American team as “one of the best she’s ever seen,” praising both individual talents and collective chemistry.
Meanwhile, U.S. defense standout Laila Edwards emphasized teamwork and balance: “We’re playing a good brand of hockey and we’re sticking to it,” highlighting the depth of the roster and shared commitment to execution.
Looking Ahead
With the preliminary round complete, Team USA now turns its attention to the single‑elimination phase. Their next game, the quarterfinal matchup with Italy, represents another stepping stone toward a medal, with ultimate aims of Olympic gold. Given their performance on February 10, many fans and commentators view this squad as a serious contender to finish atop the podium in Milan Cortina.
Overall, the U.S. women’s team delivered a defining moment at the 2026 Winter Olympics, one that will be remembered as both a sporting achievement and a testament to the continued growth and excellence of women’s ice hockey on the world stage.
