Sweden Edges Past Italy in Olympic Hockey Clash
Sweden secured a 5-2 victory over Italy at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, though not without a challenge. The game, played on February 11, 2026, saw Sweden initially struggle against a determined Italian side before ultimately asserting their dominance.
Early Italian Resistance and Swedish Response
Italy surprised many by taking an early lead, capitalizing on a mistake by Swedish goaltender Gustavsson. However, Sweden quickly responded with goals from Gabriel Landeskog, capitalizing on a power play, and Gustav Forsling, shifting the momentum.
The second period saw continued back-and-forth action. Italy managed to equalize, but William Nylander put Sweden ahead once more. The score stood at 3-2 heading into the final frame.
Sweden Pulls Away in the Third
The third period belonged to Sweden. Mika Zibanejad extended the lead, and Victor Hedman added another goal, including one into an empty net as Italy pressed for an equalizer. The final score reflected Sweden’s eventual control of the game.
Key Performances and Game Details
Gabriel Landeskog, Mika Zibanejad, and Rasmus Dahlin each contributed multiple points to the Swedish victory. Gustavsson faced a significant test in net, while Damian Clara, the Italian goaltender, was forced to leave the game due to injury in the third period, being replaced by Davide Fadani.
The game featured a penalty count of 1:1, with Sweden capitalizing on their single power play opportunity. The final shot count favored Sweden, 53-15.
Looking Ahead for Both Teams
With this win, Sweden strengthens its position in Group B. They will next face Finland in a highly anticipated Nordic derby. Italy, meanwhile, will grab on the Slovakian team, seeking to rebound from this defeat.
Game Highlights
- 10:00: Gabriel Landeskog (assisted by Zibanejad and Karlsson) scores for Sweden.
- 18:26: Gustav Forsling (assisted by Bratt and Dahlin) scores for Sweden.
- 21:35: Matthew Bradley (assisted by Gazley and Larkin) scores for Italy.
- 37:38: William Nylander (assisted by Dahlin and Kempe) scores for Sweden.
- 56:47: Mika Zibanejad (assisted by Dahlin and Rakell) scores for Sweden.
- 58:02: Victor Hedman (assisted by Forsling and Pettersson) scores for Sweden.
FAQ
Q: What was the final score of the Sweden vs. Italy game?
A: Sweden won 5-2.
Q: Who scored the winning goal for Sweden?
A: Victor Hedman scored the final goal for Sweden.
Q: When did the game take place?
A: February 11, 2026.
Q: What group are Sweden and Italy in?
A: Both teams are in Group B.
Q: What is Sweden’s next game?
A: Sweden will play Finland.
Q: What is Italy’s next game?
A: Italy will play Slovakia.
Did you know? Sweden and Italy last faced each other in the 2019 World Championships, with Sweden winning 8-0.
Pro Tip: Retain an eye on Rasmus Dahlin’s performance throughout the tournament. He was a key contributor in this game and is expected to be a driving force for Sweden.
What are your thoughts on Sweden’s performance? Share your opinions in the comments below!
