Ohio State Triumphs Over Wisconsin, Clinches WCHA Women’s Hockey Championship
The Ohio State women’s hockey team continues to impress, securing a spot in the NCAA Women’s Ice Hockey Championship tournament. They achieved this by defeating the Wisconsin Badgers 2-1 in the WCHA Final Faceoff on March 7, 2026.
Victory in the WCHA Final Faceoff
After a successful February match where Ohio State beat then-No. 1 Wisconsin 4-1, the Buckeyes faced the Badgers again in the championship. The match remained scoreless for nearly the first 50 minutes.
With just over ten minutes remaining, Wisconsin took a 1-0 lead. However, Ohio State’s freshman Hilda Svensson responded quickly. Svensson scored a stunning backhanded tip, equalizing the game at 1-1 with just over five minutes left.
Key Turning Point
Moments later, at 2:29 remaining, Jordan Baxter scored, putting the Buckeyes ahead 2-1. This lead proved decisive, as Ohio State maintained their advantage until the final whistle.
WCHA Championship History
This victory marks the third time Ohio State has clinched the WCHA Final Faceoff under head coach Nadine Muzerall. The Buckeyes have made it to the Final Faceoff championship in six out of the last seven seasons, missing out only in 2024.
- Match Date: March 7, 2026
- Final Score: Ohio State 2, Wisconsin 1
- Key Players:
- Hilda Svensson (Freshman)
- Jordan Baxter
- Conference Championships Under Muzerall: 3
- Final Faceoff Appearances: 6 of last 7 seasons
Ohio State’s determination and skill have led them to this championship victory, solidifying their position as a formidable team in women’s hockey.
