Olympics women’s hockey: Canada edges USA 2-1 in renewal of rivalry

The Olympics women’s hockey match between Team USA and Canada lived up to expectations with the latter beating the former 2-1.

So far, Olympics women’s hockey has been dominated by the United States and Canada. It’s as true now as it was in 1998. Since it became an Olympics sport, the two countries have fought relentlessly. Canada, however, has usually come out on top in the Olympics. And in their Group A finale, this continued, with America’s northern neighbors winning 2-1.

Team USA, however, should be proud of their effort. They dominated play for most of the game. However, Canada got two opportunistic goals in the second period, which proved to be the determining factor. This was a very hard-fought game even with both teams having very little to play for.

Kendall Coyne scored the lone goal for Team USA in the third period. However, their effort in the final 20 minutes didn’t get rewarded, as Canada goaltender Genevieve Lacasse had America’s number for the entire game.

It’s worth noting that every time the United States has played Canada before the gold medal game, the winner has gone on to also win the gold medal. This bodes well for Canada. They got goals from Meghan Acosta, who continues her Olympics domination, and Sarah Nurse.

Highlights

Next: Best Olympian from each state

What’s Next?

Both Team USA and Canada have clinched byes to the semifinals. It’s quite likely they will face each other again in the gold medal game. However, Team USA will have to face the winner of the game between Switzerland and the fourth-place team in Group A. And considering how dangerous Alina Muller is, that’s not a guaranteed win for Team USA.

Meanwhile, Canada clinches first place in Group A. They will face the winner of the quarterfinal match between Sweden and the third-place team in Group A. Expect to see a rematch in the finals.

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