Canada Reaches Gold Medal Game in Women’s Hockey, Defeats Switzerland 2-1

The Canadian women’s hockey team advanced to the gold medal game at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympic Winter Games, defeating Switzerland 2-1 in the semi-final match on Monday, February 16, 2026.

This victory sets up a highly anticipated gold medal showdown against the United States next Thursday, with a scheduled start time of 1:10 p.m. ET.

Game Recap

Ann-Renée Desbiens started in goal for Canada, having previously been rested in the quarterfinal against Germany, where Emerance Maschmeyer played.

The first period was a defensive battle, with both teams failing to capitalize on their scoring opportunities. Despite Canada registering 13 shots on goal compared to Switzerland’s one, the score remained 0-0 after 20 minutes.

Canada broke the deadlock in the second period, scoring two goals. Marie-Philip Poulin opened the scoring with a one-timer, becoming the all-time leading scorer in women’s Olympic hockey tournament history, surpassing Hayley Wickenheiser’s previous record. Assists were credited to Sophie Jaques and Daryl Watts.

Poulin extended Canada’s lead seven minutes later, capitalizing on a rebound from a Watts shot, with Ella Shelton likewise contributing to the play. At the end of the second period, Canada led 2-0, with a shot advantage of 35-4.

Switzerland mounted a challenge in the third period, narrowing the gap with a goal from Rahel Enzler. The goal resulted from strong forechecking by Lara Stalder and Alina Muller, creating a turnover in the Canadian zone.

Despite late pressure from Switzerland, Canada held on to secure the 2-1 victory, finishing the game with a 46-8 shot advantage.

Looking Ahead

Canada will now face the United States in the gold medal game on Thursday, February 20, 2026, at 1:10 p.m. ET. This will be a rematch between the two hockey powerhouses, promising a thrilling conclusion to the women’s Olympic hockey tournament.