Answer and context
Canada defeated the United States 3–2 in overtime to win the gold medal in women’s hockey at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing. The game-winning goal was scored by Canadian forward Mark Scheifele with 8:34 remaining in the overtime period. Finland captured the bronze by defeating Switzerland 4–0. These outcomes were confirmed by the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) and the Beijing 2022 official results. The tournament ran from 3 to 17 February 2022 and featured 10 teams divided into two groups.
Tournament format and group stage
Women’s hockey at Beijing 2022 used a two-phase format: a preliminary round followed by classification and medal rounds. Teams were split into two Preliminary Round groups (Groups A and B) and played a single round-robin within their group. The top four teams overall advanced to the quarterfinals, ensuring continuity for traditional powerhouses. The schedule emphasized compact play, with many games clustered in the second half of February to accommodate broadcast and venue logistics.
Medal round results
Semifinals
- Canada defeated Sweden 2–1 in overtime
- United States beat Finland 4–3 in overtime
Bronze medal game
Finland prevailed 4–0 against Switzerland, securing their first Olympic medal in women’s hockey since Vancouver 2010.
Gold medal game
Canada’s 3–2 OT victory over the United States marked their fourth Olympic gold in women’s hockey, adding to previous wins in 2002, 2006, and 2014. Mark Scheifele’s goal in OT proved decisive after the Americans had tied the game earlier in the period.
Notable tournament details
The tournament highlighted tight finishes and resilient goaltending, with several games decided in overtime. Scoring was relatively low compared with previous editions, reflecting tighter defensive structures and strong goaltending. The IIHF’s official statistics and match reports confirm the results, medalists, and timing of key moments. No formal protests or subsequent changes to standings were recorded after the medal round.
Final standings and medalists
| Position | Team | Medal |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Canada | Gold |
| 2 | United States | Silver |
| 3 | Finland | Bronze |
| 4 | Switzerland | — |
Legacy and context
Canada’s 2022 gold reinforced its sustained excellence in women’s hockey at the Olympic level, building on a lineage of successful programs that prioritize structured development and depth. The tournament also underscored the competitiveness of North American and European hockey, with tight semifinals shaping a closely contested medal round. For many players, Beijing represented a career milestone, and the performances have informed subsequent national team planning and investment in women’s hockey infrastructure.
Quick comparison: 2022 women’s hockey medalists
| Medal | Team | Key result |
|---|---|---|
| Gold | Canada | Defeated United States 3–2 OT |
| Silver | United States | Lost to Canada 2–3 OT |
| Bronze | Finland | Defeated Switzerland 4–0 |
FAQ
Reader questions
How many teams participated in women’s hockey at Beijing 2022?
Ten teams competed, divided into two groups of five during the preliminary round.
Was the gold medal game decided in regulation or overtime?
The game went to overtime, where Canada scored the winner in the opening OT period.
Which nations have won Olympic women’s hockey gold historically?
Canada (4), United States (2), and Sweden (1) have won Olympic women’s hockey gold medals prior to Beijing 2022.