Gold medals for Canada

USA - Canada 0-3

The tightly contested first period saw both teams focusing on defensive structure, with neither able to capitalize on limited scoring opportunities. Early in the second period, a tripping penalty to the USA's Madelyn Kimbrel set the stage for Canada to break the deadlock. Tiller's power-play one-timer, assisted by Danica Maynard and Sydney Sawyer, snuck past USA goalie Morgan Stickney with just seven seconds remaining on the penalty.

In the third period, Copetti doubled Canada’s lead after pouncing on a loose puck that deflected off an American defender’s skate. With less than two minutes remaining, Zablocki sealed the game with an empty-net goal, capping off a dominant performance by the Canadians.

Stickney was valiant in net for the USA, making 26 saves, but the American offense struggled to break through Canada's disciplined defense. Despite the loss, USA coach Liz Keady Norton commended her team's resilience, emphasizing the growth and effort displayed throughout the tournament.

Tournament Summary

The 2025 IIHF U18 Women's World Championship showcased thrilling competition and emerging talent, affirming the growing prominence of women’s hockey. Canada emerged as champions, maintaining an unbeaten record and showcasing a balanced mix of offensive firepower and defensive solidity.

The USA, silver medalists, demonstrated exceptional defensive play, allowing just five goals across the tournament. Their semifinal win over Sweden (2-1) was a testament to their grit, but they could not overcome Canada’s superior depth in the final.

Czechia took bronze after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Sweden, marking another milestone in their development as a competitive hockey nation. Slovakia, led by MVP Nela Lopusanova, avoided relegation with a 5-1 win against Japan, securing their place in next year’s top division.

Key players shone throughout the tournament. Canada’s Stryker Zablocki led all scorers with 12 points (8+4), while Slovakia’s Lopusanova delivered an exceptional performance with 11 points (5+6) in just five games, contributing to nearly all of her team’s goals.

Tournament Awards

Tournament MVP

• Nela Lopusanova (SVK): The 16-year-old became the first player to be named MVP twice at the U18 Women’s World Championship. Lopusanova’s 11 points from five games were instrumental for Slovakia, as she was involved in all but three of their goals. Remarkably, she is also the first MVP to come from a team playing in the relegation round.

Media All-Star Team

• Goaltender: Morgan Stickney (USA) – A standout performer, Stickney did not concede a single goal in the group stage and was pivotal in the USA's run to the final.
• Defenders:
  • Chloe Primerano (CAN) – The Canadian captain and last year’s MVP, she showcased elite two-way play, tallying 10 points (4+6).
  • Megan Healy (USA) – Solid in her own zone, Healy’s performance was critical to the USA’s defensive success.
• Forwards:
  • Nela Lopusanova (SVK) – Slovakia’s scoring sensation dominated offensively, further cementing her status as a rising star.
  • Stryker Zablocki (CAN) – The tournament’s top scorer led Canada with clutch performances throughout.
  • Anabella Fanale (USA) – With 9 points (5+4), Fanale was a key offensive contributor for Team USA.

Directorate Awards

• Best Goaltender: Daniela Novakova (CZE) – Her 92.82% save percentage helped Czechia secure a bronze medal.
• Best Defender: Chloe Primerano (CAN) – A dynamic presence on both ends of the ice.
• Best Forward: Anabella Fanale (USA) – A consistent offensive threat, driving her team’s attack throughout the tournament.

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