Team USA arrived in Italy aiming for medals and momentum. Their women’s hockey team delivered both in a dominant 5-0 win over Canada. The result came in the final game of the preliminary round and clinched first place in Group A. The Americans made a clean sweep, the group 4-0 and outscoring opponents 20-1.
The win felt historic. Aerin Frankel stopped 20 shots and posted a shutout. Hannah Bilka scored twice. Caroline Harvey had a goal and two assists. Kirsten Simms and Laila Edwards added tallies. The U.S. announced the moment on social media with bold graphics reading “SHUT OUT” and “5-0.” One post noted it was the first time Team USA has shut out Canada in Olympic history.
"We just witnessed the largest margin of victory EVER in the USA vs. Canada #WinterOlympics rivalry," the caption of the post read.
The social posts celebrated the goaltending and team speed. They also meant to underline a changing balance in the rivalry. Frankel’s shutout was framed as a milestone. The posts amplified an on-ice statement, the U.S. defense and depth are playing at a high level right now, given a dominant win over long-time rivals Canada.
Canada faced extra adversity. Marie-Philip Poulin was ruled out hours before puck drop. Their coach Troy Ryan called it “a sloppy game on our part,” per The Athletic. Brianne Jenner said, “We will be better.” Jocelyne Larocque added, “I have full trust in this team.” Those comments framed Canada’s reaction and their plan to regroup.
The rivalry remains fierce. For USA, the next hurdle is the quarter-final against Italy on February 13. The men’s team also has eyes on history. Led by Auston Matthews and other NHL stars, they begin group play against Latvia, Denmark and Germany. The Milan games are moving fast. Fans and analysts will watch the quarter-finals with high expectations and interest.