Canada Finishes U18 Women’s Hockey Worlds Group Undefeated

Summary:

• Canada defeated the Czech Republic 5-0, finishing the preliminary round atop Group B with nine points from three regulation wins. 
• They will face Japan in Thursday’s quarterfinals.
• Sydney Sawyer recorded a goal and an assist; additional goals came from Alex Therien and Anais Leprohon.

Canada claimed the top spot in Group B, finishing the preliminary round with a perfect nine points from three regulation wins. 

The result was possible with the 5-0 triumph over the Czech Republic at the U18 Women’s Hockey Championship in Vantaa, Finland on Tuesday.

Chasing Its 8th Gold Medal

Canada is currently chasing its eighth gold medal in tournament history. The United States claimed the title in 2024, breaking Canada’s streak of consecutive championships in 2022 and 2023 who had to settle for Bronze.

Stryker Zablocki led Tuesday’s charge with two goals, while Marilou Grenier stood tall in the net with 20 saves.

The victory cemented Canada’s position as the team is currently preparing for their next challenge on Thursday in the quarterfinals against Japan.

Contributions came from across the roster, with Sydney Sawyer recording a goal and an assist, and additional goals from Alex Therien and Anais Leprohon. 

Head Coach Sunohara, Pleased With the Result

Head coach Vicky Sunohara praised her team’s evolving offensive strategy. 

We’re starting to understand that our goals aren’t going to come from being fancy or skating around the perimeter. We have been talking about attacking the middle, getting pucks through and winning net-front battles. I think we’re doing a better job of getting to those areas. [The players] are seeing that when we do that, when we outwork their defence and their goalie, that we’re having some success.”

39 Saves from the Czech Goaltender 

Despite the loss, Czech goaltender Daniela Novakova delivered a valiant effort with 39 saves. 

The Czech Republic finished second in Group B with five points and will face host Finland in their quarterfinal matchup.

Tuesday’s action also saw dominant performances from other teams. The United States secured a 5-0 victory over Finland, maintaining their perfect record to top Group A. 

Switzerland triumphed over Slovakia 5-3, while Sweden edged Japan 5-4 in an overtime thriller. 

As a result, the U.S. will take on Slovakia, and Sweden will meet Switzerland in the other quarterfinal matchups on Thursday.

All eyes will be on the quarterfinals as the Canadians look to continue their winning momentum and inch closer to reclaiming the championship title.