Women’s Hockey Canada Triumphs: 5 Epic Highlights from 5-0 Finland Rout

Women’s hockey Canada launched their 2025 IIHF World Championship title defense with a commanding 5-0 victory over Finland on April 10, 2025, in České Budějovice, Czech Republic. Jennifer Gardiner dazzled in her debut, scoring twice and adding an assist, while goaltender Kristen Campbell secured a 24-save shutout in her first world championship start. This dominant performance set the tone for Canada’s campaign, showcasing their depth and determination. In this blog post, we’ll break down the game’s key moments, celebrate standout players, and look ahead to Canada’s quest for gold.

Table of Contents

1. Why Women’s Hockey Canada Dominated Finland
2. Jennifer Gardiner’s Stellar Debut
3. Kristen Campbell’s Shutout Masterclass
4. Key Contributions from Poulin and Shelton
5. What’s Next for Canada’s Title Defense
6. Conclusion: A Statement Win

Why Women’s Hockey Canada Dominated Finland

Canada’s 5-0 win over Finland was a masterclass in control and execution. From the opening puck drop at České Budějovice Arena, Canada dictated the pace, outshooting Finland 34-24. The game marked the start of their 2025 Women’s World Championship journey, a critical step toward a potential 13th title. Finland, the 2024 bronze medalists, struggled to match Canada’s intensity, especially after a 7-1 loss to the U.S. the previous day.

The victory highlighted Canada’s ability to blend veterans like Marie-Philip Poulin with newcomers like Gardiner and 18-year-old Chloe Primerano, who debuted alongside Jocelyne Larocque. Coach Troy Ryan noted a flat second period but praised the team’s overall discipline, setting a strong foundation for tougher matches ahead CBC Sports.

Jennifer Gardiner’s Stellar Debut

Jennifer Gardiner stole the show in her Women’s Hockey Canada debut, netting two goals and an assist for a three-point night. Her first goal came at 6:02 of the opening period, a wrist shot on a give-and-go with Ella Shelton that beat Finnish starter Emilia Kyrkko. Just 18 seconds into the second period, Gardiner struck again, her shot deflecting off a Finnish skate to make it 4-0, prompting Kyrkko’s replacement by Anni Keisala.

Gardiner’s chemistry with Montreal Victoire teammates Poulin and Laura Stacey was evident, as the trio overwhelmed Finland’s defense. “Gardiner is a good mix of energy and skill,” Ryan said, highlighting her seamless transition from the PWHL to the world stage. Her performance earned her the game puck, a fitting reward for a debut that signaled Canada’s offensive depth.

Kristen Campbell’s Shutout Masterclass

Goaltender Kristen Campbell was a brick wall in her world championship debut, stopping all 24 shots for a shutout. Her performance was especially vital in the second period, where she made key saves on odd-man rushes despite Canada’s sluggish play. “Campbell made saves we didn’t expect her to have to make,” Ryan noted, underscoring her composure under pressure.

Campbell, the Toronto Sceptres’ top netminder in the PWHL’s inaugural season, stepped up with regular starter Ann-Renée Desbiens sidelined for recovery from a March 18 injury. Backed by newcomer Ève Gascon, Campbell’s shutout was a redemption after a tough November 2024 outing against the U.S. Her confidence, honed by nearly 20 PWHL games this season, anchored Canada’s defense and set a high bar for the tournament.

Key Contributions from Poulin and Shelton

Women’s hockey Canada’s veterans delivered when it counted. Captain Marie-Philip Poulin, a four-time Olympic goal scorer, added a goal and an assist, moving closer to Hayley Wickenheiser’s tournament records with 36 goals and 43 assists. Her first-period tally, assisted by Gardiner and Stacey, came at 17:12, banging in a feed at Finland’s doorstep. Poulin’s leadership and choice of “Kickstart My Heart” as Canada’s goal song energized the team and the 1,128 fans in attendance.

Ella Shelton matched Poulin’s output with a goal and an assist. Her first-period marker at 12:22, a top-corner shot using an Emily Clark screen, showcased her offensive flair from the blue line. Emma Maltais sealed the 5-0 scoreline in the third, tipping in Micah Zandee-Hart’s shot. These contributions from Canada’s core ensured a balanced attack, overwhelming Finland’s defense.

What’s Next for Canada’s Title Defense

The Finland rout gives Women’s Hockey Canada momentum, but the road to gold is packed with challenges. Their next game, a Pool A clash against Switzerland on April 11 at 3 p.m. local time, demands focus after a tight turnaround. Switzerland, fresh off a loss, will test Canada’s depth, especially with Desbiens potentially returning to the lineup.

Tougher opponents like the U.S., who trounced Finland 7-1, loom in Pool A. Canada’s historical dominance—losing only twice in 91 games against Finland—sets a high standard, but the 2019 Finnish semifinal upset lingers as a reminder of vulnerability. Integrating young stars like Primerano, who impressed in her debut, with seasoned players will be key. Ryan’s strategy of pacing veterans while unleashing new talent could make Canada unstoppable as they eye the May 4 final in Prague.

Conclusion: A Statement Win

Women’s Hockey Canada’s 5-0 thrashing of Finland was more than a win—it was a declaration of intent. Jennifer Gardiner’s electric debut, Kristen Campbell’s flawless shutout, and clutch plays from Poulin and Shelton showcased a team firing on all cylinders. As Canada gears up for Switzerland and beyond, this performance sets the stage for a thrilling championship run. Fans can rally behind the squad, streaming games on IIHF TV or following updates on social media. Let’s cheer Canada toward another gold medal and celebrate the grit and skill of women’s hockey!