In their first marquee matchup of the tournament, the U.S. women’s team faced off against the formidable Czechia in a thrilling night game. The standout performer was goalie Brooke Wolejko, whose stellar play was central to the game’s narrative. The Americans struck early with a power play goal from Sarah Hughson, then relied on Wolejko’s exceptional goaltending as the Czechs outshot them nearly two to one in the first period.
The second period followed a similar pattern, marked by tight neutral zone play and another power play goal, this time by Becky Dobson. The Czechs managed to break through the American defense, scoring to end the period with the U.S. leading 2-1.
In the third period, the U.S. had several power play opportunities but couldn’t convert. With their goalie pulled, the Czechs tied the game at 2-2 with just nine seconds left. The intense overtime period ended scoreless, leading to a shootout. Taylor Steadman scored the decisive goal with a backhand shot, and Brooke Wolejko stopped all Czech shooters, securing the victory for the U.S. in a game that will be remembered as an instant classic.
