Canada Women’s Hockey Rout Czechia 5–1 but Lose Captain Poulin

The Canadian women’s ice hockey team recorded a decisive 5–1 victory over Czechia in Group A round-robin play at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina, Italy, on Monday. Canada dominated early and moved to a 2–0 record in the tournament, but the win was tempered by an injury to captain Marie-Philip Poulin.

Canada jumped out to a strong lead with four goals in the first period, starting with Kristin O’Neill scoring just over five minutes in. Sarah Fillier and Laura Stacey added goals before Julia Gosling helped extend the advantage with a power-play goal late in the frame. Gosling also scored early in the second period to make it 5–0, showcasing Canada’s offensive depth.

Czechia’s Natalie Mlynkova scored in the third period to break Canada’s shutout but could not change the momentum of the game. Canada’s goaltender Ann-Renee Desbiens made 18 saves to backstop the victory, maintaining strong form between the pipes.

The game took a concerning turn when Poulin left early with a lower-body injury after a hit. Although she briefly returned to the bench during the first period, she did not take another shift and was ruled out before the third. Her injury raises questions about her availability for Canada’s crucial matchup against rival Team USA scheduled next. Poulin is one of Canada’s most decorated players and her status will be closely watched by fans and teammates alike.

Canada’s comprehensive offensive effort highlighted balanced scoring and effective special teams play. Julia Gosling’s two goals continued her impressive tournament start, while the defence limited Czechia’s opportunities and protected the early lead.

With the win, Canada strengthens its position in Group A standings, sitting behind the unbeaten United States ahead of their head-to-head clash. All Group A teams are expected to advance, with seeding determined by final round-robin results and goal differentials.