Key Takeaways
- Team USA won 9-1 against Czechia in the preliminary round of the 2026 IIHF Under-18 Women’s World Championship
- Jane Daley scored a hat trick, her second in two games, to lead Team USA to victory
- Talla Hansen and Alaina Gnetz each scored a goal, while Emily Pohl and Taylee Manion added two assists each
- Team USA outshot Czechia 53-16 and was 2-6 on the power play
- The U.S. Under-18 Women’s National Team will face Finland in its final preliminary round game on Tuesday, January 13
Introduction to the Game
The 2026 IIHF Under-18 Women’s World Championship has been underway, and Team USA has been making waves with its impressive performances. In Sunday’s game, Team USA took on Czechia and emerged victorious with a score of 9-1. The win was a testament to the team’s skill and determination, and it has put them in a strong position in the preliminary round. The game was played with a lot of intensity, and both teams gave it their all, but in the end, Team USA’s superior skill and strategy paid off.
The Game’s Key Moments
The game started off with a bang, as Jane Daley scored a shorthanded goal with 7:54 remaining in the first period. The goal was a result of a clever play by Kylie Amelkovich and Chyna Taylor, who cleared the puck to Daley at the blue line, allowing her to split Czechia’s defense and score. The U.S. extended its lead to 4-0 heading into the first intermission, with Daley scoring her second goal of the game, and Amelkovich and Talla Hansen adding goals of their own. The team’s momentum continued into the second period, with Maggie Averill scoring just 22 seconds in, and Lindsay Stepnowski and Jillian McLaughlin adding goals later in the period.
Players’ Performances
Several players stood out in the game, including Jane Daley, who scored a hat trick, her second in two games. Talla Hansen and Alaina Gnetz each scored a goal, while Emily Pohl and Taylee Manion added two assists each. Bianca Birrittieri recorded 15 saves in net, earning her first career win as a member of the U.S. Under-18 Women’s National Team. She also picked up an assist on Team USA’s sixth goal of the night. Overall, the team’s performance was impressive, with everyone contributing to the win.
Coach’s Comments
After the game, head coach Courtney Kennedy praised her team’s effort, saying, "Tonight was an impressive win. Czechia is a good team. We continued to push and I’m proud of our effort, especially in back-to-back games." Kennedy’s comments reflect the team’s hard work and dedication, and it’s clear that they are focused on making a strong run in the tournament.
Upcoming Games
Team USA will face Finland in its final preliminary round game on Tuesday, January 13. The game is set to start at 1:30 p.m. ET and can be viewed live on NHL Network. The team will be looking to build on its momentum and secure a spot in the next round of the tournament. With its strong performance so far, Team USA is looking like a strong contender for the championship title.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Team USA’s 9-1 win over Czechia was an impressive performance that showcased the team’s skill and determination. With players like Jane Daley, Talla Hansen, and Alaina Gnetz leading the way, the team is looking strong heading into its final preliminary round game against Finland. The game will be an exciting one to watch, and fans will be eager to see how Team USA performs. With its sights set on the championship title, Team USA is ready to take on the challenge and make a strong run in the tournament.
