The USA-Canada Olympic hockey rivalry took a stunning turn as Team USA blanked Canada 5-0 in a game that rewrote the record books. The resounding win marks the first time Canada has ever been shut out in Olympic women’s hockey — and the biggest win margin by an American squad over Canada in Olympic play, period.
Led by Olympic newcomer Hannah Bilka, who notched two goals, the Americans looked dominant from the start. Kirsten Simms and Laila Edwards each netted their first Olympic goals, with Edwards making history as the first Black woman to compete — and score — for the U.S. on the Olympic ice. Captain Hilary Knight contributed an assist, tying the U.S. record for most career Olympic points at 32.
Goaltender Aerin Frankel was rock solid, turning away all 20 Canadian shots to secure her second shutout of the tournament. Team USA has now scored five goals in each of its first four games, allowing just one in total — a staggering 20-1 scoring advantage.
Canada, playing without injured captain Marie-Philip Poulin, struggled to generate offense. While her lower-body injury is not considered serious, she remains day-to-day ahead of Canada’s next game against Finland on Feb. 12.
With this win, the U.S. clinches the top spot in Group A and shifts its focus to a quarterfinal clash with Italy on Feb. 13. Head coach John Wroblewski, using a Mount Everest metaphor, reminded his team that the hardest part is yet to come.
Meanwhile, praise is pouring in. Olympic gold medalist and analyst Angela Ruggiero dubbed this U.S. roster the best she’s ever seen. Based on the stats, few would argue.