Sweden secured a 4-1 victory over Germany in their opening match of the 2026 Winter Olympics women's ice hockey tournament in Milan. Lina Ljungblom scored twice in her comeback from illness, helping the team overcome an early deficit. Goaltender Ebba Svenson Traff made key saves to secure the win.
The game began with tension as Germany took a 1-0 lead eight minutes in on a power-play goal by Nina Jobst-Smith, capitalizing on Sweden's failure to clear the puck. Sweden responded four minutes later when Lina Ljungblom, playing her 100th international game after missing much of the season due to mononucleosis, tied it at 1-1 by stuffing in a rebound.
In the second period, Sweden seized control during a power play following Celina Haider's penalty. Ljungblom struck again, converting a sharp team play to give Sweden a 2-1 lead. Later, on another power play, Mira Ljungåker rifled a precise shot for the 3-1 advantage. The fourth goal came at even strength, though details were not specified in reports.
Sweden outshot Germany 37-16 and drew four penalties while taking only one. They converted two of four power plays, while Germany scored on their lone opportunity. Svenson Traff, a surprise starter over more experienced Emmad Soderberg, stopped 15 of 16 shots in her Olympic debut, building on her 2025 IIHF championship experience.
Ljungblom, who plays for the PWHL's Montreal Victoire alongside German goalie Sandra Abstreiter, impressed from the fourth line and may earn a promotion. Coach Ulf Lundberg emphasized a resilient 'fuck you-mentalitet,' likening the team to honey badgers. Defender Maja Nylén-Persson called Ljungblom the 'fuck you-minister' for her tenacity.
A minor off-ice issue saw Sweden's locker room toilet flood, forcing players to use an alternative until it was fixed during the second intermission. Anna Kjellbin noted it was resolved without major disruption.
The win positions Sweden well in their group, with a potential key matchup against Japan ahead. They face Italy next on February 7.
