Canada blanks Czech Republic to finish group stage undefeated at U18 women’s hockey worlds
Stryker Zablocki scored twice and Marilou Grenier made 20 saves as Canada secured a commanding 5-0 victory over the Czech Republic in the under-18 women’s hockey world championship in Vantaa, Finland. This impressive win propelled Canada to the top spot in Group B after accumulating nine points from three regulation wins. Their next challenge will be against Japan in the quarterfinals on Thursday.
Sydney Sawyer also had a notable performance for Canada, contributing a goal and an assist. Additionally, Alex Therien and Anais Leprohon added to the scoring for the dominant Canadian team. Despite their best efforts, Daniela Novakova of the Czech Republic faced a barrage of shots and managed to make 39 saves in the game.
The Czech Republic finished second in Group B with five points and will now face Finland in the upcoming quarterfinals. Canada, on the other hand, is aiming for their eighth championship at the event, having won the previous two titles before the United States claimed victory in 2024.
In other results from Tuesday’s matches, the United States delivered a shutout performance against Finland, winning 5-0 and securing the top spot in Group A with a flawless record in the preliminary round. Switzerland also emerged victorious, defeating Slovakia 5-3, while Sweden narrowly edged out Japan 5-4 in overtime.
The upcoming quarterfinal matchups will see the United States facing Slovakia and Sweden taking on Switzerland in what promises to be intense and competitive games. As the tournament progresses, the excitement and anticipation continue to build as teams battle it out for supremacy on the ice.
