Czechs Clinch Victory; Sweden Advances to Quarterfinals in Ice Hockey
The Czech Republic and Sweden achieved significant victories in the Olympic women’s ice hockey tournament held in Milan.
Czechs Clinch Victory Against Finland
On February 8, 2026, the Czech Republic secured their first victory in Group A by overcoming Finland with a score of 2-0. This match took place at the Milano Rho Ice Hockey Arena.
The Czechs faced challenges early in the tournament, having previously lost 5-1 to the U.S. and suffered a 4-3 defeat in a shootout against Switzerland. Meanwhile, Finland’s opening match was delayed due to several players testing positive for norovirus, leading to a 5-0 loss against the U.S.
- First Period Goals:
- Tereza Pistekova scored first at the 3rd minute.
- Natalie Mlynkova added a second goal towards the end of the period.
The Czechs successfully defended their lead against a persistent Finnish attack. Goalie Klara Peslarova made crucial saves to maintain the shutout. The Czech team managed to hold onto their lead, unlike in previous matches where they faltered.
As a result of this win, the Czech Republic positioned itself second in Group A, with six points, trailing the U.S. who topped the group. Canada follows with three points, Switzerland has two, and Finland remains without points.
Sweden Advances with Dominant Performance
In parallel, Sweden triumphed over France, sealing their spot in the quarterfinals with a comprehensive 4-0 victory in Group B. The Swedish team has achieved a maximum of nine points across three matches.
- Goals by Sweden:
- Thea Johansson (4th minute)
- Sara Hjalmarsson
- Hanna Thuvik
- Lisa Johansson (start of second period)
Sweden’s offense was formidable, scoring three goals in the opening period. Thea Johansson, who is now the tournament’s top scorer, opened the scoring by capitalizing on a rebound. Hjalmarsson and Thuvik followed suit, showcasing Sweden’s offensive prowess.
Despite several penalties, including one against Swedish player Mira Jungaker for interference, Sweden managed to suppress France’s attempts. The French team ended the match without scoring a goal, sitting at the bottom of Group B with no points after three losses.
Sweden’s next match will be against Japan, while France is set to face Germany. The upcoming games will further determine seeding for the knockout stage of the tournament.
