In 2025, the United States faced off against Canada in a fierce women’s hockey rivalry match. The competition between the two nations intensifies in the run-up to the Winter Olympics. Canada struggled against the U.S., winning only one out of eight matches in 2025.
The U.S. emerged victorious twice in the world championship held in April, clinching a thrilling 4-3 overtime win in the final. Additionally, the Americans dominated the four-game Rivalry Series in November and December, outscoring Canada 24-7. Following a split in the previous season’s Rivalry Series, the U.S. went on a winning streak, with the exception of 2006 when Sweden upset the American team in the semifinals.
Despite the challenges, Canadian forward Brianne Jenner expressed confidence in her team’s ability to defend their gold medal at the upcoming Olympic Games in Milan and Cortina, Italy. Similarly, Canada’s captain Marie-Philip Poulin, named the International Ice Hockey Federation’s female player of the year in 2025, remained resolute about the team’s prospects.
The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), entering its third season in November, revolutionized the Olympic preparation strategies for both countries. The traditional approach of Canada, relying on team cohesion built over months of training and playing numerous games together, was altered due to the PWHL’s influence.
Canada’s head coach, Troy Ryan, acknowledged the shifting landscape of women’s hockey, emphasizing the impact of the PWHL on the national team’s dynamics. The selection process for the Olympic roster is influenced by players’ performances in the PWHL and national team events.
Canada’s management team, led by general manager Gina Kingsbury and head coach Troy Ryan, closely monitors players’ performances in the PWHL to finalize the Olympic roster. The expanded rosters in the women’s world championship in 2025 mirrored the men’s format, affecting the selection process for the upcoming Olympics.
The competition in the PWHL presents challenges, with injury risks looming large as the league breaks for the Olympic Games. The management teams are vigilant about player safety and readiness for the upcoming tournament. As the teams prepare for the Olympic Games in February, the potential for roster adjustments remains, especially in response to injuries.
The athletes not initially selected for the Olympic team are informed about the possibility of joining the squad in case of injuries. The management emphasizes flexibility and readiness among all players as they gear up for the Olympic challenge.