Anticipation builds as Team USA and Canada prepare to face off in the preliminary round of the Women’s Hockey Tournament at the Winter Olympics on February 6, 2026, at 2:10 p.m. ET. This matchup marks the renewal of one of the most storied rivalries in sports, with both teams entering the game undefeated at 5-0 and boasting a combined goal difference of plus-22.
The two nations have a rich history in Olympic women’s hockey, having met in the gold medal game six out of seven times since the tournament’s inception. Team USA captured the inaugural gold medal in 1998, followed by a dominant streak from Canada, winning four consecutive titles from 2002 to 2014. The Americans broke this streak in 2018 but were unable to hold onto the title as Canada reclaimed it in 2022. The only time another nation reached the championship was in 2006, when Sweden upset Team USA in the semifinals before falling to Canada.
Current Form and Historical Context
As these two powerhouses prepare for their 193rd contest, Canada holds a slight edge in the overall series with 106 wins to Team USA’s 86. Despite this historical advantage, the Americans have dominated in recent encounters, winning the last six matchups while outscoring Canada 30-11. Their most recent clash, a decisive 4-1 victory for Team USA on December 13, 2025, capped a 4-0 sweep in the 2025-2026 Rivalry Series.
The stakes for this preliminary round game are significant. The winner is likely to secure the No. 1 seed in the knockout stage, while the loser will be positioned as the No. 2 seed. Both teams are expected to advance to the finals, making this encounter a critical step towards the gold medal.
Though some analysts argue the pressure is greater on Canada, given their recent struggles against the U.S., Team USA is currently viewed as the favorite. Bookmakers have consistently placed the Americans as the top choice for the gold medal in Milan, reflecting their recent form and head-to-head success.
Betting Insights and Predictions
This matchup presents an intriguing betting landscape. While Team USA’s recent dominance has led to them being favored, some experts caution that the betting market may be overreacting to past results. The prior games in the Rivalry Series took place just before the launch of the new Premier Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) season, potentially skewing perceptions of team strength.
Despite Team USA’s current momentum, the gap between these teams is still narrow. For those considering betting, Canada offers appealing value as an underdog, especially in the U.S. market where much of the action is likely to favor the Americans. With star player Marie-Philip Poulin questionable for the game, the odds may shift further, providing an opportunity for savvy bettors to capitalize on potential discrepancies.
As the rivalry unfolds, the outcome remains uncertain, yet the excitement and intensity of this matchup promise a thrilling spectacle for fans and athletes alike.
