USA vs Italy Preview & Prediction | 2026 Winter Olympics | Women’s Ice Hockey | Quarter-Final

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After cruising through the group stage with a 100% record, USA takes on Italy for a place in the last four.

Kick-off date/time:

How to watch on TV: UK – TNT Sports (some events will also be televised on the BBC / TNT Sports / Not Televised / USA – NBC, USA Network, CNBC & NBCSN

How to watch online: UK – discovery+ (some events can be streamed live on the BBC’s digital platforms / USA – Peacock & nbcolympics.com

USA vs Italy prediction

The biggest gulf between quarter-final opponents comes in this fixture as Group A winners USA faces third-placed Italy, who won two and lost two of their four Group B matches. USA meanwhile, went four from four including a statement-making 0-5 triumph over bitter rivals Canada to top their group with a whopping 20 goals scored and three shutouts. The Beijing 2022 silver medallists haven’t conceded a goal since their opening game of the tournament.

If USA were to lose against Italy, it would probably be the biggest shock not only of the quarter-finals but arguably of the entire Winter Olympics. They are far better, cleaner, quicker, stronger and more skilful with elite technique, understandably so when considering that most of their players are full time professionals whilst others represent some of the best talent around in NCAA Ice Hockey. One player likely to make a big impact is Hilary Knight. The USA captain scored in each of her side’s opening two games and is well worth backing to do the same again in the last eight.

USA vs Italy tip: USA to win and Hilary Knight to score anytime