Bilka’s Brace Ignites US Offensive Firepower (Image Credits: Flickr)
Milan, Italy — The United States women’s hockey team crushed rival Canada 5-0 on Tuesday in a preliminary round clash at the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena, securing the top spot in Group A at the 2026 Winter Olympics.[1][2]
Bilka’s Brace Ignites US Offensive Firepower
Hannah Bilka emerged as the standout performer with two goals, propelling the Americans to an early lead. Caroline Harvey opened the scoring at 3:45 of the first period on a shot from the left point, assisted by veteran Hilary Knight.[1] Bilka added her first tally shortly after, capitalizing on a no-look pass from Abbey Murphy in the corner.
The momentum carried into the second period, where Kirsten Simms jammed home her first Olympic goal on the power play at 1:21. Bilka struck again at 13:00, one-timing another Murphy setup. Laila Edwards capped the scoring in the third with her milestone goal at 11:53, becoming the first Black woman to score for the U.S. Olympic team.[2]
Frankel’s Wall Anchors Defensive Masterclass
Aerin Frankel stood tall in net, recording 20 saves for her second shutout of the tournament and extending the U.S. scoreless streak to over 211 minutes across three games. The Americans outshot Canada 33-20, dominating possession and limiting high-danger chances.[1]
Canada’s Ann-Renee Desbiens faced 27 shots before getting pulled, while Emerance Maschmeyer stopped five in relief. The U.S. converted 1 of 5 power plays, while Canada went 0-for-1. This defensive clinic handed Canada its first shutout in 41 Olympic women’s hockey games.[3]
Rivalry Reaches New Heights of Dominance
The victory marked the largest margin in U.S.-Canada Olympic history for women’s hockey and extended America’s winning streak to seven straight meetings against the northern neighbors. The U.S. swept the pre-Olympic Rivalry Series 4-0 and outscored Canada decisively in recent Worlds play.[2]
Canada entered without captain Marie-Philip Poulin, sidelined by a lower-body injury five hours before puck drop. U.S. coach John Wroblewski cautioned his team post-game. “What’s the hardest part of climbing the mountain? Getting home,” he said, emphasizing the challenges ahead.[2]
| Scorer | Period/Time | Assists |
|---|---|---|
| Caroline Harvey | 1st/3:45 | Hilary Knight |
| Hannah Bilka | 1st/2:42 | Abbey Murphy |
| Kirsten Simms | 2nd/1:21 (PP) | – |
| Hannah Bilka | 2nd/13:00 | Abbey Murphy |
| Laila Edwards | 3rd/11:53 | – |
Perfect Record Propels Americans Forward
With a flawless 4-0-0 record, the U.S. finished preliminary play with a staggering 20-1 goal differential, scoring five goals in each game. Knight tied the U.S. Olympic points record at 32 with her assist. Players praised the team’s chemistry and leadership.
“We’re playing a good brand of hockey and we’re just sticking to it,” Edwards noted.[2] The Americans now prepare for Italy in the quarterfinals on February 13 at the Milano Rho Ice Hockey Arena.
Key Takeaways:
- First Olympic shutout ever inflicted on Canada by the U.S.
- Hannah Bilka’s two goals lead 5-0 rout; Aerin Frankel earns second shutout.
- U.S. tops Group A unbeaten, eyes gold three wins away.
This emphatic win underscores Team USA’s gold medal aspirations, but the real test awaits in the knockout rounds. What do you think sets this U.S. squad apart? Tell us in the comments.
