Canada and USA Women's Hockey Teams Play Big Olympic Game

Canada and the USA women's hockey teams will play a key game in the Olympics. This is a big rivalry match. Learn about the players and when to watch the game.
By Newsroom | Sports, Olympics |

The Rivalry Heats Up: Stakes High for Preliminary Round Clash

The upcoming preliminary round game between Canada and the United States in women's Olympic hockey carries significant weight beyond the immediate score. This match is not just another contest; it is a pivotal moment in one of sports' most storied rivalries. Both teams enter the game with recent victories but also with elements of uncertainty and a history of closely contested battles. For Canada, the status of their captain, Marie-Philip Poulin, who sustained an injury in their last game, is a major talking point. Her absence or limited capacity could dramatically shift the dynamic. For the United States, this game represents an opportunity to continue a recent trend of dominance against their northern rivals, having outscored Canada significantly in their recent series. The outcome will shape perceptions and potentially influence seeding and psychological advantages heading into later stages of the tournament.

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What’s at stake as Canada, Team USA meet in preliminary round - 1

Recent Performance and Team Dynamics

Both Canada and the United States have begun their Olympic journeys with wins. Canada defeated Czechia 5-1 and Switzerland 4-0. However, concerns linger about execution issues in the Switzerland game. The team also played one fewer game than the United States due to a rescheduled match against Finland. The United States has started strong, defeating Switzerland 5-0 in their most recent outing, bringing their record to 3-0. Both teams are playing on the second half of a back-to-back schedule, a factor that could affect player stamina and performance.

What’s at stake as Canada, Team USA meet in preliminary round - 2

  • Canada's Path:

  • Victory over Czechia (5-1).

  • Concerns over Marie-Philip Poulin's injury status.

  • Noted execution issues against Switzerland.

  • United States' Path:

  • A 3-0 record entering the game.

  • A decisive 5-0 win against Switzerland.

  • Both teams on the second day of back-to-back games.

Historical Context of the Rivalry

The rivalry between Canada and the United States in women's hockey is deep-seated and has been a hallmark of multiple Olympic Games. Their encounters have frequently determined gold medal outcomes, with results often decided by narrow margins or overtime.

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What’s at stake as Canada, Team USA meet in preliminary round - 3
YearStageResultNotes
1998Gold Medal GameUSA 3-1 CAN
2002Gold Medal GameCAN 3-2 USA
2010Gold Medal GameCAN 2-0 USA
2014PreliminaryCAN 3-2 USA
2014Gold Medal GameCAN 3-2 USA (OT)
2018PreliminaryCAN 2-1 USA
2018Gold Medal GameUSA 3-2 CAN (SO)Shootout decided the winner.
2022PreliminaryCAN 4-2 USA
2022Gold Medal GameCAN 3-2 USA

This historical data illustrates the frequent parity and the intense nature of their matchups, especially in medal games.

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Recent Head-to-Head Performance

In the lead-up to the Olympics, the United States demonstrated a significant advantage over Canada in their recent "Rivalry Series." The Americans swept a four-game series, outscoring Canada by a substantial margin of 24-7. This recent trend suggests a strong current performance level for the U.S. team. However, this is the Olympic stage, and the dynamics of international competition can often elevate play and create unexpected outcomes.

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  • United States recent series record: 4-0.

  • United States total score: 24 goals.

  • Canada total score: 7 goals.

This disparity raises questions about how Canada will adjust its strategy and performance against the U.S. in the Olympic environment.

Player Impact and Emerging Talent

Key players on both sides are central to their teams' strategies. For Canada, the potential absence of captain Marie-Philip Poulin is a considerable factor, given her immense impact. Forward Julia Gosling has emerged as a strong offensive force for Canada, scoring three goals, all on power plays, in her first two Olympic games. On the U.S. side, younger players like Laila Edwards, Tessa Janecke, and defenseman Haley Winn are gaining valuable experience. Winn, in particular, has been logging significant ice time in the PWHL this season, indicating her readiness for high-level competition.

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  • Canada's Notables:

  • Marie-Philip Poulin (Captain, injury status key).

  • Julia Gosling (3 goals, all on power play).

  • United States' Emerging Talent:

  • Laila Edwards.

  • Tessa Janecke.

  • Haley Winn (significant ice time leader).

Media and Broadcast Information

This highly anticipated preliminary round game will be accessible to viewers through various platforms. In Canada, fans can watch the game on CBC and CBC Gem. For viewers in the United States, broadcasts will be available on Peacock and NBCOlympics.com. The scheduling details indicate the game will be played on Tuesday, February 10th, at 2:10 p.m. ET.

Sources Used

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is the game between Canada and USA?
The game is on Tuesday, February 10th, at 2:10 p.m. Eastern Time.
Q: Where can I watch the game?
In Canada, watch on CBC and CBC Gem. In the USA, watch on Peacock and NBCOlympics.com.
Q: Is Canada's captain playing?
Canada's captain, Marie-Philip Poulin, was hurt in the last game. It is not clear if she will play or how much.
Q: Has the USA team played well recently against Canada?
Yes, the USA team won their last four games against Canada and scored many more goals.