Olympics women’s hockey classification game: Switzerland-Japan highlights, updated bracket and more
In the fifth-place game of Olympic women’s hockey, Switzerland topped Japan by a score of 1-0.
Switzerland has made quite the statement in Olympic women’s hockey in Pyeongchang. They entered the tournament ranked sixth by the IIHF. By beating Japan 1-0, Switzerland finishes in fifth place while Japan finishes in sixth. Much like the former, the latter has announced their arrival, tying their best finish in Olympics history.
Much like their game against Korea, Switzerland struggled to score. Their lone goal came from Evelina Raselli in the first period. This goal was unassisted. Japan outshout Switzerland 20-14, deserving a better result than they got.
For both teams, this has to be considered a pretty successful Olympics. Switzerland was expected to struggle after having to transition to several younger players. However, these players impressed and got some very valuable experience. Alina Muller, in particular, should be a building block for the future. Lisa Reudi and Stefani Wetli, two teenagers, should be important as well. Switzerland has a nice crop of young players, and they’re only going to get better from here on out.
Japan played an impressive team game. They have no stars, but their defense throughout the tournament was inspiring. Japan has a darn good goalie in Nana Fujimoto and an encouraging younger one in 22-year old Akane Konishi. Their overtime win over Sweden was arguably the most exciting moment of the tournament.
Switzerland’s fifth-place finish is a slight step back from the bronze medal performance in 2014. However, as stated, their step back was sort of expected. Even though Switzerland has to be disappointed to not be playing for the bronze medal after an impressive preliminary round, they have to be excited about their future.
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Japan has a lot to be proud of as well. These two countries were exciting to watch, and it’s awesome to see women’s hockey blossoming across the world.
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