November 6, 2026
Canada’s women’s hockey program continues its pursuit of international excellence, carrying the expectations of a proud hockey nation.
The Canadian squad remains focused on building team chemistry, developing its next generation of talent, and maintaining its position among the world’s elite women’s hockey programs.
Canada 5, Sweden 1
Canada opened the 2026 IIHF Women’s World Championship with an impressive 5-1 victory over Sweden on Friday in Herning, Denmark.
The Canadians delivered an outstanding opening period, scoring three unanswered goals and establishing control early.
First-period scoring
Jessie Eldridge opened the scoring.
Emily Clark doubled Canada’s advantage on the power play.
Rebecca Leslie made it 3-0.
Second-period scoring
– Kendall Cooper extended Canada’s lead to 4-0 with a power-play goal.
Third-period scoring
Hanna Thuvik got Sweden on the scoreboard.
Jessie Eldridge scored her second goal of the night to complete the 5-1 victory.
Three Stars of the Game
Jessie Eldridge (Canada) – Two goals and one assist.
Kendall Cooper (Canada) – One goal and one assist.
Ann-Renée Desbiens (Canada) – Strong performance in goal with 11 saves.
What This Means for Canada
This was an important statement from a younger Canadian roster
With a new coaching staff under Kori Cheverie and several emerging players, Canada showed it has the offensive depth and defensive structure to compete for another world championship.
What’s Next
Canada faces Japan on Sunday, November 8, at 1 p.m.
The ultimate objective remains clear: bring the gold medal back to Canada.
Final Verdict: An excellent tournament-opening performance.
Jessie Eldridge led the way, the power play delivered, and Canada’s young lineup showed plenty of promise.
