U.S. routs Czechia 9-1 in women’s world hockey championship semifinal

BRAMPTON, Ont. – The United States beat Czechia 9-1 on Saturday to book a spot in the women’s world hockey championship gold medal game for a 22nd consecutive time.

Forwards Hilary Knight, Amanda Kessel and Tessa Janecka each scored twice for the U.S., and defenceman Caroline Harvey led all skaters with four points (one goal, three assists). Forward Adela Shapovalivova scored the lone goal for Czechia, which has yet to make a final.

It’s the second straight year the U.S. has defeated Czechia in the semifinals.

American goaltender Aerin Frankel made 14 saves in the win at the CAA Centre in Brampton, Ont.

Blanka Skodova started in the Czech net, but was pulled after allowing four goals on 19 shots. Netminder Katerina Zechovska turned away 21 of 26 shots in relief.

The U.S. will play archrival Canada in Sunday’s final.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 15, 2023.