The Swedish women's hockey team suffered a 5-0 defeat to the United States in the Olympic semifinal, marked by a collapse in the second period. Despite the loss, players and coach expressed determination for the upcoming bronze medal match. Focus also turned to a controversial hit on goalkeeper Emma Söderberg.
In the Olympic women's hockey semifinal held in Milano, Tre Kronor Dam faced a formidable USA team and ultimately fell 5-0. The match began with a challenging first period for Sweden, where USA dominated possession, spending much time in the offensive zone. Sweden appeared stressed with the puck, often clearing it immediately after regaining control. Their first shot on goal did not come until after 11 minutes. USA took the lead at 5:09 on a power play, with Cayla Barnes scoring past goalkeeper Ebba Svensson Träff to make it 1-0 after 20 minutes.
Sweden grew into the game but could not prevent the second goal, which came unluckily and prematurely. The second period proved disastrous, as USA scored four times to lead 5-0 by the end of the frame. Svensson Träff was replaced by Emma Söderberg after the fourth goal. In the third period, Sweden mounted pressure, playing to a 0-0 scoreline, but a comeback against the world's top team was too steep.
A notable incident occurred when USA's Abbey Murphy collided with Söderberg behind the net shortly after her entry. Söderberg described it as a direct hit to the head, stating, "It feels to me like she clips me right in the head." Officials ruled it a shoulder contact, issuing only a two-minute penalty. SVT commentator Jonas Andersson reacted strongly, saying, "If that's not a head check, what is? I get angry." Coach Ulf Lundberg noted from the bench it seemed to hit the head but deferred to the referees.
Despite the defeat, positivity emerged. Lundberg praised the team's effort: "I am proud of the work ethic and how we held together after the quick goals." Captain Anna Kjellbin added, "I am pumped for the bronze match and believe we can achieve something good as a team." Forward Hanna Olsson emphasized moving forward: "A bronze would be huge. We close this game now and look ahead." The bronze match is set for Wednesday against the loser of the Canada-Switzerland semifinal, with Canada favored to advance.
