Team USA Dominates Canada 5-0 in Olympic Women's Ice Hockey

Laila Edwards makes history as first Black woman on U.S. Olympic ice hockey team

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The American women's ice hockey team delivered a stunning 5-0 victory over Canada in the preliminary round of the 2026 Winter Olympics. This marks Canada's worst-ever defeat in women's Olympic ice hockey. Laila Edwards scored her first Olympic goal, becoming the first Black woman to represent the United States in women's Olympic ice hockey. Veteran captain Hilary Knight also tied the all-time record for most career Olympic goals with 14.

Why it matters

This dominant performance by Team USA solidifies their status as the gold medal favorite heading into the medal rounds. The lopsided victory over their biggest rival Canada raises questions about the Canadian team's ability to compete at the highest level. Edwards' historic achievement as the first Black woman on the U.S. Olympic ice hockey team is a milestone moment for diversity and representation in the sport.

The details

Hannah Bilka led the scoring with two goals, while Caroline Harvey, Kirsten Simms, and Laila Edwards each added one goal. The American attackers generated 33 shots on goal, overwhelming the Canadian defense led by goaltender Emerance Maschmeyer. Team USA controlled the game from start to finish, showcasing their youth, speed, and skill.

  • The game took place on February 10, 2026.
  • Laila Edwards scored her historic first Olympic goal in the third period.

The players

Laila Edwards

A 22-year-old defenseman from Cleveland Heights, Ohio, who became the first Black woman to represent the United States in women's Olympic ice hockey.

Hilary Knight

A five-time Olympian and veteran captain of the U.S. women's ice hockey team, who tied the all-time record for most career Olympic goals with 14.

Emerance Maschmeyer

The Canadian goaltender who made 27 saves in the losing effort against the dominant American offense.

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What’s next

Team USA will face Italy in the quarterfinal matchup on February 13, as they continue their quest for the gold medal.

The takeaway

This historic victory by Team USA not only solidifies their status as the gold medal favorite, but also represents a significant milestone for diversity and representation in women's Olympic ice hockey. Laila Edwards' achievement as the first Black woman on the U.S. team is a powerful symbol of progress in the sport.