The GIST: The 23rd IIHF Ice Hockey Women’s World Championship, also known as the premier women’s hockey tournament, kicks off today in Utica, NY, with an anticipated fierce rivalry set to captivate spectators.
Furthermore, with the PWHL’s groundbreaking first season fueling a revolution in women’s hockey, the excitement surrounding the top players in the game has never been higher. Lace up and get ready.
How it works: The tournament comprises 10 teams divided into Groups A and B, with the top five ranked nations placed in Group A and the remaining five in Group B. All teams in Group A, including top-ranked Canada and defending champions the United States, automatically advance to the quarter-finals, alongside the top three finishers from group play in Group B.
Given the varying skill levels in international women’s hockey, this format ensures competitive matches throughout the tournament. However, historical trends suggest that Canada and the U.S. are likely to face off in the final, with Finland, ranked fourth globally, being the only other team to challenge for the gold medal. Their dominance is unmatched.
Team USA: The American team is aiming for consecutive titles after their victory over Canada in last year’s final. Captain and forward Hilary Knight, who scored a hat trick in the championship game, will provide leadership to a young and energetic team comprising eight players who recently competed in the NCAA championship.
Watch out for their tournament opener tonight at 7 p.m. ET against the third-ranked Switzerland.
Team Canada: This experienced squad is seeking redemption and features familiar faces such as PWHL Toronto forward Sarah Nurse and PWHL Montréal’s Marie-Philip Poulin, a three-time world champion hungry for a fourth title. Poulin is renowned for her clutch performances.
While the roster is largely unchanged, there may be a decision to make in goal, with PWHL Toronto goalie Kristen Campbell’s impressive season potentially earning her the starting position over Ann-Renée Desbiens. Canada starts their campaign tomorrow at 7 p.m. ET against Finland.
