Megan Keller scored for the United States at 6:29 in the first period, giving Team USA a 1-0 lead over Italy in the quarterfinal round of the women’s hockey tournament at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy. The goal came during 4-on-4 play, and the U.S. Will now have a power play lasting over a minute.
The U.S. Women’s team entered the quarterfinal with a perfect 4-0 record in preliminary play, having outscored opponents 20-1. This dominant run included a historic 5-0 shutout of Canada – the first time the Canadians have been held scoreless in Olympic competition. The Americans are considered the heavy favorites to win gold, a title they last held in 2018.
Italy, the host nation, advanced to the quarterfinal with a 2-2 record in the group stage. The game is being played in front of a home crowd, adding an extra layer of intensity to the matchup.
Team USA captain Hilary Knight recently tied the all-time U.S. Olympic points record, while Abbey Murphy, Caroline Harvey, and Laila Edwards have emerged as key offensive contributors. Goaltender Aerin Frankel has been a standout performer, recording two shutouts during the preliminary round.
A penalty called on Italy during the power play offered an opportunity to extend the lead, but the American penalty kill remained perfect at 6-for-6 in the tournament. A moment of confusion followed a penalty call on Italy, as an Italian player indicated to the referee that it was not yet time to enter the penalty box.
Elsewhere at the Milan Cortina Games, Ilia Malinin, dubbed the “Quad God,” is scheduled to compete in the free skate portion of the men’s figure skating competition, vying for a gold medal. The U.S. Women’s curling team secured a 9-8 victory over Canada in round robin play, marking the first time they have defeated Canada at the Olympics.
