The United States women’s national ice hockey team has booked its place in the gold medal game at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina following a stunning 5-0 victory over Sweden in the semifinals on 16 February 2026. This win keeps America’s hopes alive for Olympic gold and continues their remarkable run at these Games.
In a display of power, precision and teamwork, the U.S. skated to a convincing shutout in the semifinal, cementing their reputation as one of the most dominant forces in women’s hockey today.
🏒 Semifinal Highlights: USA 5–0 Sweden
The semifinal took place at the Milano Santagiulia Ice Arena in Italy, where the United States controlled every aspect of play from puck drop to final buzzer. Their 5–0 victory was marked by balanced scoring, relentless pressure and sensational goaltending.
📊 Key Scoring Breakdown
| Period | Goals | Scorers |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | 1 | Cayla Barnes (5:09) |
| 2nd | 4 | Taylor Heise, Abbey Murphy, Kendall Coyne Schofield, Hayley Scamurra |
| 3rd | 0 | — |
The scoring was spread across the lineup, with standout performances from multiple players:
- Cayla Barnes opened the scoring early, getting Team USA off to a perfect start.
- In the second period, the Americans erupted for four goals as Taylor Heise, Abbey Murphy, Kendall Coyne Schofield and Hayley Scamurra all found the back of the net.
- Goaltender Aerin Frankel was electrifying between the pipes — posting a phenomenal shutout with 21 saves, giving the USA showcased defensive strength and consistency throughout the tournament.
This semifinal victory pushed the U.S. record to 6-0, extending an overwhelming stats line of 31 goals scored and just 1 allowed at the Milan Cortina Games.
🔥 What This Win Means for the U.S. Team
⭐ Consistent Olympic Power
The U.S. women’s hockey team has been dominant throughout the tournament, and this semifinal performance was no exception. With this emphatic victory, they’ve:
- Advanced to the gold medal game in the women’s hockey tournament.
- Continued their shutout streak, including multiple shutouts in the Olympic run.
- Reinforced their status as a gold-medal favorite heading into the final.
The United States has one of the most impressive women’s hockey programs in the world, and this result keeps that legacy alive. Their combination of offensive firepower and staunch defense has been on full display from game one.
🧠 Standout Performers
🥅 Aerin Frankel – The Wall in Net
Goaltender Frankel was spectacular once again, stopping all 21 shots she faced and recording her third shutout of the tournament. Her calm composure and lightning-quick reflexes give the U.S. a major advantage heading into the final.
🏒 Offensive Leaders
- Cayla Barnes provided the spark with the first goal, crucial in setting the tone.
- Taylor Heise, Abbey Murphy, Kendall Coyne Schofield and Hayley Scamurra all scored in the second period, showing depth and balance in the American attack.
Each contributor played a vital role in dismantling Sweden’s defense and guiding the team toward the gold medal match.
🏆 Road to the Final
With this win, the U.S. will now face either Canada women’s national ice hockey team or Switzerland women’s national ice hockey team in the gold medal game later this week — a matchup that promises to be a thrilling conclusion to an outstanding Olympic campaign.
For the Americans, it’s an opportunity to reclaim Olympic gold and add to their impressive legacy. They’ve shown the consistency, talent and mental toughness necessary to compete at the highest level, and their semifinal performance was a perfect showcase of those qualities.
📌 Big Picture
The U.S. women’s hockey team’s run this year has been marked by dominant offense, disciplined defense and exceptional goaltending. This semifinal rout of Sweden reflects not only tactical excellence but also the depth and resilience of the roster.
Fans around the world will be eagerly anticipating the gold medal game, where Team USA will aim to finish their Olympic journey on the highest possible note.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This post is based on verified results from the 2026 Winter Olympics women’s hockey tournament and official match reports from the U.S. Women’s Hockey Team’s semifinal against Sweden. Official Olympic statistics and final game details are maintained by the International Olympic Committee and respective sports authorities.
