Tessa Janecke scored the golden goal in overtime as the United States defeated Canada 4-3 on Sunday, clinching the top prize at the 2025 IIHF Women’s World Hockey Championship. The dramatic finish took place in České Budějovice, marking the U.S. team’s second world title in three years and their 11th overall.
Janecke’s goal at 17:06 in overtime sealed the victory, ending a back-and-forth game between the two hockey powerhouses. With this win, the U.S. narrowed the gold medal gap with Canada, who still lead with 13 titles.
Overtime Thriller Ends with U.S. on Top
The gold-medal match was the 23rd time the U.S. and Canada have met in a women’s world final, and the 10th to be decided in overtime or a shootout. Both teams now have five wins apiece in those high-stakes matchups.
U.S. forward Taylor Heise set up the winning play, feeding Janecke who shoveled the puck past Canadian goalie Ann-Renée Desbiens. Janecke’s quick response and positioning brought a thrilling end to the championship game.
“I just saw the puck come loose and went for it,” said Janecke after the game. “We’ve worked so hard for this moment. It’s an incredible feeling.”
Game Highlights and Scoring Summary
The United States took control in the second period with two quick goals. Caroline Harvey struck first at 7:16, followed just 29 seconds later by Abbey Murphy. But Canada hit back just as fast. Danielle Serdachny and Jennifer Gardiner each scored within 55 seconds to even the score at 2-2.
The U.S. regained the lead early in the third when Heise scored on a power play, picking the top corner past Desbiens at 5:27. However, Canada once again responded. Sarah Fillier capitalized on a rebound during a net-front scramble, tying it 3-3 at 14:12 and forcing overtime.
U.S. Goalie Switch and Key Saves
A turning point came when U.S. starting goalie Aerin Frankel collided with Canadian forward Laura Stacey and had to leave the game. Gwyneth Philips stepped in, stopping 17 shots to help maintain the tie and send the game to overtime. Frankel made 27 saves before exiting.
“Both of our goalies were outstanding,” said U.S. captain Hilary Knight. “Gwyneth came in cold and gave us exactly what we needed.”
Knight Extends Record, Heise Shines
Veteran forward Hilary Knight added another gold medal to her collection, extending her record to 10 world championship golds and 15 total medals, the most by any player in the tournament’s history.
Taylor Heise finished the night with a goal and an assist and was a consistent force throughout the game. Caroline Harvey and Abbey Murphy also found the net for Team USA.
Canadian Leaders and Historic Moments
Despite the loss, Canadian captain Marie-Philip Poulin set a new national record with 50 career assists in world championship play, breaking Hayley Wickenheiser’s previous mark. Poulin also led the tournament in points, scoring four goals and eight assists across seven games, earning her the MVP award.
Jennifer Gardiner’s goal in the second period tied the game for Canada and marked one of the few moments where Canada looked poised to pull ahead. Sarah Fillier’s tying goal in the third helped keep Canada’s hopes alive until Janecke’s dagger in overtime.
Global Stage Set for 2026 Olympics
The intense rivalry between Canada and the U.S. is set to continue at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina, Italy, where Canada will try to defend its Olympic gold. The U.S. previously claimed Olympic gold in 2018 after beating Canada in a shootout.
Record Attendance and Future Championships
The total attendance at Budvar Arena reached 122,331, breaking the previous record of 119,231 set in 2007 in Winnipeg and Selkirk, Canada. This was the first time the Czech Republic hosted the women’s tournament, and the atmosphere was electric throughout.
In the bronze medal game, Finland defeated host Czech Republic 4-3 in overtime, securing third place in the tournament. The next women’s hockey world championship will be held two months after the 2026 Olympics, with the host city to be announced at the upcoming IIHF Congress in May.
Promotion and New Contenders
Denmark and Austria earned promotion to the 2026 championship after winning their respective Division I tournaments. Their rise signals growing depth in international women’s hockey.
